Restoring Dignity: Rotary Club of Chula Vista Eastlake Serves Mexico’s Forgotten Seniors
In a remote corner of La Rumorosa, Mexico, where dusty, rock-laden roads wind toward a forgotten home for abandoned seniors, members of the Rotary Club of Chula Vista Eastlake made a transformative visit. Armed with food, medical supplies, and an abundance of compassion, the team spent the day providing not ju
st material aid, but hope, dignity, and a human connection to the 35 elderly men who call Casa Para Pobres Desamparados their home. This club service project was not merely an act of charity—it was an act of profound service, embodying the values of humility, love, and care that define the heart of Rotary’s mission.
st material aid, but hope, dignity, and a human connection to the 35 elderly men who call Casa Para Pobres Desamparados their home. This club service project was not merely an act of charity—it was an act of profound service, embodying the values of humility, love, and care that define the heart of Rotary’s mission.The Sept. 14 journey to the seniors' home involved navigating a bumpy, dusty dirt road leading to a ranch-style building in a remote area about 40 minutes east of Tecate, Mexico. Despite the terrain and distance, the volunteers arrived early Saturday morning, picking up groceries in Tecate along the way. Donations from a bevy of friends and supporters helped provide funding for the project. Clubs supporting the effort include the Chula Vista Rotary Club. Rotary clubs in Mexicali and Tecate also support the seniors center.
On this day, about a dozen Rotary members and friends brought much-needed donations of food, blankets, adult diapers, medical supplies, and clothing. Among the items delivered were vegetables and medications, meticulously organized and purchased by Laura Rodriguez, one of the Chula Vista Eastlake club’s members who also played a key role in tracking fundraising efforts. Laura’s attention to detail and dedication ensured the success of the project’s logistics.
Hands-on Service and Compassionate Care
In addition to delivering supplies, the volunteers rolled up their sleeves and helped with repairs and maintenance around the home. But what left the most lasting impact was the care provided by Natalia Terreros (in Rotary Connect photo above) and Laura Clarizio (photo right), compassionate nurses who spent the day attending to the seniors’ personal needs. The pair bathed the seniors’ feet, clipped nails, and treated callouses and sores with tender care, embodying the humility and selflessness of biblical parables (ie the washing of disciples' feet).
Heartfelt Reflections from Members
For many, the visit was a profound experience. Miriam Gonzalez, a member of the Rotary Club, expressed her gratitude to the group, stating, “Thank you all for all your hard work 💜 and for spending your Saturday doing what we do best—helping others. 🙏🏼🙏🏼 A special thanks to Laura for tracking the fundraiser, putting together the spreadsheet, buying all the medications & all the veggies! Laura & Carlos (Rodriguez), thank you 😊 🙏.”
Carlos Rodriguez, another member, reflected on the meaningful impact of the visit, saying, “Yesterday was an amazing day! We made an impact on all the seniors… They truly appreciated all the team effort. That’s what I take from this trip. Thanks to the compassionate nurses Natalia and Laura…!! They did a spectacular job. I’m glad I am part of this group.”
The day's work not only brought physical relief and resources to the seniors but also provided moments of connection, care, and respect that these abandoned seniors seldom receive. It was an effort of compassion, humility, and teamwork—values that the Rotary Club of Chula Vista Eastlake continues to uphold.
As the group returned home late that evening, they left behind more than food and supplies; they left behind the assurance that the seniors at Casa Para Pobres Desamparados were seen, cared for, and loved. The Rotary Club’s dedication to service above self is evident in the compassion and effort they put into projects like this one. By reaching across borders to care for the most vulnerable, they continue to make a lasting impact, one life at a time.
Want to Get Involved?
If you would like to support the Rotary Club of Chula Vista Eastlake in future projects or make a donation to help those in need, please contact Miguel Hernandez, 2024-25 Club President, at rotaryclubeastlake@gmail.com. Together, we can continue making a difference.
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