Extending Our Heartfelt Support to Acapulco: A Message from the Pax Natura Foundation
In a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable, it is in times of crisis that the strength of communities and the power of compassion shines the brightest. Members of the Pax Natura Foundation find ourselves reflecting on these sentiments as we share news regarding our recent visit to Mexico City and Acapulco.
A Purposeful Visit to Mexico City
Our journey to Mexico City was marked by a profound sense of purpose as we presented our 2023 Award to the Demanda Collective Maíz. It was a momentous occasion—one that celebrated the relentless dedication of individuals and organizations working together to successfully preserve the natural genetics and extensive cultural history of the corn they grow.
However, before we share the details of this event, we feel it is essential to discuss what happened right after most of us left Mexico. Hurricane Otis, a Category 5 hurricane, quickly built strength and devastated Acapulco and surrounding areas. This natural disaster claimed dozens of lives and left many individuals missing. The storm caused widespread destruction and heartbreak to thousands of people.
Acapulco Holds a Special Place in Our Hearts
Following the awards ceremony and other activities in Mexico City, the attending members of the board, including the founder and President, Randall Tolpinrud, traveled to Acapulco. Acapulco is not just a destination. It holds a special place in our hearts, as it is where Randall and his wife, Luisa González de la Vega, have a home. Although our trustees departed Acapulco and headed home prior to the hurricane’s arrival, Randall returned to Mexico City prior to the storm and read about it the next morning. Louisa and her immediate family remained in Acapulco where they live.
In addition to Randall and Louisa, many friends of Pax Natura also reside in Acapulco. We are immensely grateful that everyone we know is safe, although the extent of property damage and the challenges of obtaining food and clean drinking water is widespread and sobering. Randall returned to Acapulco as soon as transportation restrictions allowed and brought as much food and water as the car could hold, Supporting the Recovery Efforts
As we witness the challenges that the people of Acapulco and surrounding areas have in front of them following Hurricane Otis, our thoughts and prayers go out to them. We stand with that community in solidarity and offer our support in any way we can.
In Conclusion
In times of adversity, we are reminded of the strength that lies within human connections and the importance of coming together as a global community. While we embarked on our journey to celebrate positive change, we return home to find ourselves extending our heartfelt support to the incredible people of Acapulco and all areas of Mexico that have been impacted.
As we move forward, we remain committed to our mission of fostering environmental conservation, food sovereignty and sustainable practices. Together, we can rebuild, heal, and create a brighter future for all, living in peace with nature.
Stay strong, Acapulco. We are with you every step of the way.
With sincerest wishes for recovery and stability,
Pax Natura Foundation