Words by Smiley Team
The Latin America travel industry in the UK is working together to support social and environmental projects throughout Latin America – and this festive season they need your help.
Their projects help transform lives, provide clean water, dental or medical support and practical training to provide people with new skills in Mexico, Central and South America.
The LATA Foundation was set up by the Latin America Travel Association, bringing together tourist boards, airlines, tour operators, hotels, ground agents, travel publishers, PR companies and the press, to put something back into the countries where they have all worked.
It’s a UK-based charity, entirely run by volunteers both in the UK and Latin America, and they have now launched their Christmas Gift 2021 campaign, with the aim of raising £10,000.
“While many people have suffered throughout the pandemic, the poorest areas of Latin America have been in crisis," they said. "Please support our campaign with vouchers priced from just £5."
(Read more about how Latin America is set to trial alternative economics)
“From supporting food and clothing for children at Friends of Alalay, to a home for former street children in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, helping with uniforms and educational materials for disadvantaged students to attend secondary school via the Condor Trust, Ecuador, to empowering disadvantaged women in Nicaragua via XtraOrdinary Women's bootcamp, plus many others, all funds go to those most-in-need.
“We have specified what each amount can support at the grassroots projects we work with. Many of these charities have suffered the effects of the pandemic and are in desperate situations, meaning donations are needed now more than ever."
The charity's mission is to conserve the environment, alleviate poverty, generate economic growth through sustainable development and promote ethical and responsible business practices.
Donations will go towards funding the work of The LATA Foundation, such as buying a pair of ballet shoes for a child attending a dance school in one of Rio de Janeiro’s favelas.
Or, your money could help with the cost of food, clothing and education for a street child in Bolivia, or for a more generous amount, ensuring junior doctors can leave Venezuela.
A £50 gift could fund food for a rescued mammal for six weeks, including sloths, monkeys, anteaters, kinkajous, coatis, porcupines, badgers, agoutis, armadillos via Kids Saving the Rainforest, Costa Rica.
You can find out more about The LATA Foundation’s Christmas appeal, and make a donation on the charity's website.
