During the few times we traveled in Mexico, we saw many people standing by the sides of the road, sometimes actually blocking the road, carrying receptacles marked “Cruz Roja,” or “Red Cross.” These people wanted donations from travelers, and in fact, some would not let you pass until you gave them money. Now, while I am sure Cruz Roja is a legitimate entity in Mexico, I am skeptical that all of these people (none of whom showed any credentials) were collecting for it.
In addition, and this is what sparked this question, I am now seeing people north of the border collecting for Cruz Roja. A woman wearing a nurse’s cap was standing out in front of our supermarket collecting. What’s up with all this? Are all these people legitimate? If not, where is the money going?
From Mexican Red Cross
“By Mexican law, it is the only organization, outside of big cities, authorized to render first aid to anyone injured in an auto accident or in the commission of a crime.”
"In 1919, it was recognized by the International Red Cross and received a charter in 1923. Since then, the organization has been prohibited from accepting any financial aid from any government agency. It is financed by private donations only. "
“Thus, it became the sole designated caregiver in situations normally handled and paid for by governments in most parts of the world.”
“Fortunately, the Delegation has two auxiliary groups. The Volunteers to Assist the Red Cross, largely non-Mexican and the Damas of the Cruz Roja, mostly Mexican ladies, run fund raising affairs that keep a monthly deficit under control, but just barely”
Looks like you might be running across some of the work of the auxiliary groups who are getting desperate for funds to support the Red Cross. Check out the article for more, there is also an e-mail address for its’ author.