At Vallarta Cares, we work hard to fight hunger and help people in great need in Puerto Vallarta and beyond. We started as a food bank during a pandemic and have grown to offer more than just food – we also have medical care, education, and disaster relief. Our goal is to make Puerto Vallarta healthier, stronger, and better. Join us!
In the shadows of 2020, as the world grappled with the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic, a beacon of hope emerged in Puerto Vallarta. What began as a compassionate response to the immediate crisis quickly evolved into a movement. Without the usual influx of tourists, many in our community faced severe food insecurity and extreme poverty for the first time. Recognizing the urgent need, a small group of locals, driven by a shared vision of compassion and support, came together to make a difference. This collective effort marked the birth of what was initially known as Vallarta Food Bank.
As word of our work spread, the community's response was overwhelming. Volunteers joined, donations flowed in, and partnerships with local businesses and charities were formed, significantly amplifying our ability to reach and support those in need. Our operations expanded rapidly, from distributing a handful of food packages to providing thousands weekly, and from focusing solely on food insecurity to addressing a spectrum of urgent needs within the community.
Our initiative soon realized that the challenges faced by our beneficiaries were multifaceted. The economic fallout from the pandemic had not only left families hungry but also without access to basic healthcare, leading us to introduce medical and dental care services. Recognizing the importance of dignity in adversity, we also set up facilities offering personal hygiene services. Moreover, as we encountered people unable to cook at home due to lack of resources, we established a soup kitchen, serving hundreds of meals daily to those in dire need.
The journey of Vallarta Cares is a testament to the power of collective action and the profound impact of community solidarity. It's a story of how a simple act of sharing and caring can ignite a flame of hope and support that grows to light up the lives of many. Our evolution from a food bank to a comprehensive support system underlines our commitment to not just address immediate needs but to empower our community for a sustainable future.
Our rebranding to Vallarta Cares encapsulates our broader mission—reflecting our holistic approach to aiding not just through food but through care that touches every aspect of life. We are more than just a food bank; we are a lifeline for those in need, a source of hope in desperate times, and a community committed to lifting each other up.
Through the support of countless volunteers, donors, and partners, Vallarta Cares continues to grow and adapt to meet the ever-changing needs of our community. Our story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering support, illustrating the remarkable difference we can make when we come together in the spirit of care and community.
Our Story
Making a Tangible Difference, One Life at a Time
At Vallarta Cares, our mission is to support individuals and families facing food insecurity and extreme poverty in Puerto Vallarta, Cabo Corrientes, Bahía de Banderas, and beyond. We extend our helping hand to those affected by disaster situations, providing not just food, but also medical and dental care, alongside essential training to empower our community members to overcome their challenges. In every act of service, we strive to embody our core values: Integrity, Compassion, Resilience, Community, and Transparency.
Our values are the bedrock of our organization, guiding every decision we make and action we take. They represent our commitment to serving our community with honesty, empathy, perseverance, inclusivity, and openness. By adhering to these principles, we ensure that our efforts not only meet the immediate needs of those we serve but also foster a sense of belonging, support, and hope for the future.
The journey of Vallarta Cares is ongoing, and we invite you to join us in making a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve. Whether as a donor, volunteer, or advocate, your support is invaluable. Together, we can continue to extend the reach of our care, creating a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community.