“We had a wonderful, restful vacation and delivering supplies to the Cruz Roja enriched it. I’m attaching a couple of photos.
I’ve been working with NJT Toronto pack parties whenever my schedule allows since my daughter did over the summer before grade 12, and I’m sold on the incredible model of sharing resources and building bridges between communities. WestJet took the extra three bags we were bringing for no charge (and the customer service rep I spoke to on the phone for instructions was effusive in her praise of traveller humanitarian efforts), though we did have to join a long queue at the airport to check them in (extra free bags can’t be done via online check-in). But all was well and the direct flight to Cozumel was easy.
We three (my partner, my daughter, and I) rented a car to deliver the suitcases to the Cruz Roja. Although we’d been there three years ago to talk with them about bringing supplies on our next visit, we did get a little lost on the way and drove by The Big Conch sculpture at a downtown intersection several times before finding it. They have moved into a more spacious and renovated space since we were there last, and you’ll see from the photo how clean and spacious it is. I spoke with Daniel Cortes Gomes, the director, the day before to let him know we’d be coming, but we were late! Monserrat, the receptionist, knew we were coming, but we all needed a little help from Google translate to communicate. Eventually, Daniel’s sister, who also serves as the Cruz Roja dentist and who speaks better English than our Spanish, greeted us (she’s in the photo). They were very happy for the supplies, since each centre operates as a separate cost centre. The Cruz Roja are first responders as well as low-cost medical and dental services for the Cozumel community. We’re happy to have had the chance to contribute to what they do.
After that, we explored Cozumel island’s north (beautiful but windy) side. We had a walk on the beach and a delicious seafood taco lunch—photo attached.
I’m also enclosing the form you sent to us that Dr Gomez (the dentist) filled out on behalf of her brother.
Thanks very much for your help with this, and happy holidays,
Christine, Andrew, and Emma” – NJTT
