The Rotary Club of Edson Needs Your Help
In 2001, the Grande Prairie Rotary Club acquired a school bus to transport wheelchairs to needy people in Mazatlan, Mexico. Building on that success, the Highway to Mexico project was born in 2003 with the delivery of two more school buses leading up to the 120th vehicle being delivered in 2023 (our 22nd year!).
The project started with school buses, but the need for emergency vehicles, equipment and training was evident in the State of Sinaloa and beyond. Even in cities with over 500,000 people, the government does not provide funding for Fire Departments or Ambulance Services are staffed mostly by volunteers. The equipment and training that the Highway to Mexico project has provided has
been invaluable.
Each year, volunteer Rotarians drive 5,000 km to Mexico in a convoy of up to 12 fire trucks, ambulances and school buses. All of the equipment is donated to agencies which meet rigid standards for sustainability determined by Rotary Clubs in Mexico. The fuel, maintenance insurance, toll fees and expenses are funded by Rotary.
Rotary Needs Your Support
The Highway to Mexico project has been successful due to the generous donations received from various cities, towns, municipalities and companies who have provided new or retired fire apparatus, ambulances, firefighting appliances, rescue tools, medical equipment and personal protective equipment. Purchasing all of this would not be possible. To date, the replacement value of all donated items delivered is approximately $20,000,000.
The apparatus and equipment have a dramatic impact on responders and public safety in Mexico and are treated with respect by its recipients. Such appreciation and care will extend the service life of the equipment well into the future.
The real effect of the project is seen when the vehicles and equipment are delivered to communities in Mexico. It is truly life-changing. A bus gets kids to school. Fire apparatus and well-equipped and protected firefighters save homes and businesses.
A fully equipped ambulance responds to treat and transport a loved one, rescued from a vehicle collision and so much more.
This is where you come in! The project is looking for fire apparatus and equipment, whether donated or purchased at a nominal fee. In cooperation between the Rotary Clubs of Grande Prairie and Edson, we would be happy to discuss the opportunities
for your support.
Please contact:
Murray Heinrich – Rotary Club of Edson
780-712-6444 or [email protected]
For a downloadable flyer please visit this link: HTM Brochure Edson 2023
