How HELP Murcia Mar Menor has been making a difference across the Region
From nappies in Cartagena to a special walker for a little boy with a rare condition, here's what the charity has been up to lately
Founded in 2002, HELP Murcia Mar Menor has been quietly getting on with the business of supporting those in need across the Region of Murcia for more than two decades now. The organisation is a registered voluntary charity funded entirely by donations and money raised at social events and if their recent activity is anything to go by, they show absolutely no signs of slowing down.
RedMadre Cartagena
Volunteers Andrea, Frank and Paul made another trip to RedMadre in Cartagena recently, delivering €300 worth of desperately needed supplies including nappies, baby wipes, baby wash, shampoo and feminine hygiene products.
RedMadre does incredible work supporting struggling mums and their babies, distributing over 3,000 nappies every single month, and HELP has been proud to play its part in keeping those supplies coming.
Altoana Golf Society
There was also a very welcome donation from the Altaona Golf Society, who presented David, Tricia and Margaret with a cheque for €500, half of the €1,000 the society had raised over the past year, with the other half going to a second charity.
The connection to HELP was a personal one, as one of the golfers' husbands had been in need of a leg extension during his recovery from an injury, something HELP had been able to provide. He's reported to be making steady progress, which is lovely to hear.
Tipsy Thistle
A nice surprise also came in the form of a donation from the Tipsy Thistle, who handed over €152, the entire proceeds from their St George's Day raffle. Every penny counts and HELP is grateful to the bar and everyone who took part.
Ayuda para Ares
Perhaps the most touching story in this latest round-up involves a young boy called Ares, who suffers from SMA, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a genetic neuromuscular condition that affects the nerve cells controlling muscle movement and leads to significant muscle weakness.
His family, friends and a local running club in Cartagena, Escuela Triatlón Mandarache, have been fundraising to buy a Rifton Pacer, a specialist walker that would help Ares move more freely, strengthen his muscles and give him a degree of independence.
HELP has donated €500 to the campaign, which needs to raise €3,700 in total.
Bob - El Habanero Tren Turístico Los Alcázares
And finally, a bit of brilliant news from Los Alcázares, where El Habanero Tren Turístico has gifted HELP a full year of advertising aboard its tourist train.
The train's summer season kicks off in June, stopping at Hotel Costa Narejos, La Minería, 525 and the Ayuntamiento among others, so give them a wave when they pass by.
As well as their regular route, El Habanero also offers Urban Art Tours, Cultural Tours and private hire for special events.
You can find them on Facebook or drop them an email at elhabanerolosalcazares@gmail.com.
Anyone interested in contributing to HELP's work can visit the office in Los Alcázares or pop into their Outlet at Avenida de la Unión 57 in San Javier, where volunteers are always happy to chat and share more information about what they do.
The Outlet is open five days a week, Monday through Friday, from 10am to 1.30pm. Deliveries and collections can be arranged for Wednesdays and Thursdays with prior notice.
Address
Calle Penelope 11, Urbanizacion Oasis, Los Narejos, Los AlcazaresTel: 968 570 059. (Answer phone outside office hours)
Mobile: 654 632 077. Only to be used in emergencies. Donations call Doreen: 637 920 882
Mobile: 654 632 077. Only to be used in emergencies. Donations call Doreen: 637 920 882
HELP MMM help people of all ages, with all sorts of problems
The HELP Association of Murcia Mar Menor, was founded in 2002, and is a registered voluntary charitable organisation which provides a 'Helping Hands' service within the Region of Murcia.
HELP MMM can provide information on LIVING IN SPAIN and can recommend drivers and interpreters when required.
HELP MMM welcomes new members. They also have Coffee & Company group which meets on the second Tuesday of the month for those wishing to meet others in the local area. This is open to anyone, and it is not necessary to be a member of HELP MMM.
HELP MMM lends mobility equipment and, in particular, wheelchairs and walking aids, and some toilet/bath equipment. This can be particularly useful after operations and hospital procedures.
HELP MMM carries out many fundraising activities to continually fund their excellent support service which helps residents and non-residents with problems related to living in Spain.
HELP MMM deals with all kinds of problems, particularly at times of crisis and emergencies, such as in the case of accidents, thefts, break-ins, sudden deaths and when the police or medical services are involved. They respond to emergency situations and maintain a close liaison with the British Consul and other local organisations.
The entire organisation is run by volunteers and new participants are always welcome to come along and participate in the many activities they undertake. There are always volunteers manning the office during open hours, so pop in for a chat.
Directions to the office: From the AP7 motorway, take exit 786 signposted Los Alcázares norte. At the roundabout opposite are decorative arches, proceed through the arch passing the A'Estribor restaurant. Take the first turning on the right into Calle Penélope. Second right (alongside the Tourist Information Office). Right again onto the service road.
Office opening hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 12.30pm
Help Murcia Mar Menor Outlet: The Outlet is located at Avenida de la Unión 57, San Javier and is open Monday to Friday from 10am until 1.30pm.
If you have any items which you would like to donate, please call Doreen. Collections can be arranged.
