Report on the 2008 San Carlos Christmas Basket Drive

As part of its mandate, the Coronado Social Association has either initiated or put their energies into social projects to improve the quality of life for local Panamanians. This December 2008, as with the year before members of the CSA participated in a Christmas food drive, to fund raise, purchase and distribute food baskets to needy area families. The baskets were distributed to families in the San Carlos region who have children with special needs.  The event was held December 20th with some 40 families attending at a community hall in San Carlos. The event was organised by the local authorities under the supervision of Senora Mirabelle.

Arrangements were made to deliver baskets to the homes of those who were unable to attend the event.

It was a great, fun day, and the special children in particular had a wonderful time, with each child receiving a Christmas gift and lunch box. Members of the CSA and friends assisted with the distribution of the food baskets. It was heart-warming to see the broad smiles all around the room.

The CSA raised sufficient funds to purchase 50 food baskets, and Mirabelle paid a warm tribute to the work and generosity of the CSA in lending its support, during the festive season, to those who are less fortunate than us.  As a token of their appreciation, the authorities arranged lunch at the hall for the volunteers, a gesture which was warmly appreciated.

We extend special thanks to Maureen, Robin, Leslie and Elvin for their herculean shopping effort, to John and Renee for organising the packing, storage and delivery of the baskets, together with the little gifts they provided to each child.  A huge thank you also to the many others who gave so generously of their time and funds throughout the last year – too many to name but they will know who they are!