Reports on Play Center for 82 children with cancer in Mexico

Project Report | Aug 10, 2026
A Space to Play, Learn, and Feel Supported

By Maritza Ambrosio Fernandez | Project Leader

At Manos Unidas por Coatzacoalcos A.C., our Playroom is much more than a place to spend time while waiting for medical appointments. It is a safe and welcoming space where children and young people affected by cancer can continue to play, learn, interact, and simply enjoy being children during a very difficult stage of their lives.

For younger children, games and recreational activities provide moments of joy, creativity, and social interaction. Playing allows them to temporarily step away from the stress of medical procedures and treatment. For our older children and teenagers, access to computers gives them opportunities to explore, learn, stay connected, and develop digital skills—helping them maintain a sense of normality and continue learning despite the interruptions caused by treatment.

The positive impact of the Playroom goes beyond the activities themselves. It provides emotional relief, social connection, and a sense of normal life for children and their families. It reminds them that cancer does not have to define every moment of their ch

For this reason, keeping the Playroom open and properly equipped is an important part of our mission. Continuity matters. Every toy, educational material, computer, and hour of operation represents an opportunity for a child to smile, learn, connect, and feel supported.

We are deeply grateful for every donation that helps us keep this space alive. Your support does more than provide resources—it allows us to maintain a place where children and young people can find moments of joy, dignity, and hope while facing their treatment.

From all of us at Manos Unidas por Coatzacoalcos A.C., thank you for believing in our mission, supporting our children and young people, and helping us keep the Playroom open. Your generosity makes this continuity possible, and every contribution becomes part of the positive impact we create together.

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Mar 30, 2026
A Space for Hope and Healing: The Impact of Our Pl

By Maritza Ambrosio Fernandez | Project Leader

A Space for Hope and Healing: The Impact of Our Playroom

For children undergoing cancer treatment, showing up to each medical appointment is not always easy. Fear, exhaustion, and emotional distress can become barriers that put their treatment at risk. That is why our playroom exists—to provide a safe, welcoming space where children can find comfort, joy, and emotional strength.

Through play, connection, and support, this space helps children feel less afraid and more willing to continue their treatment. In doing so, it becomes more than a place to play—it becomes a vital part of helping them stay on track and increasing their chances of survival.

Impact in Action

Inside the playroom, children find relief from the emotional weight of their illness. Through art, games, storytelling, and shared moments, they are able to express emotions, reduce anxiety, and reconnect with a sense of normal life.

The playroom also supports their cognitive development through activities such as reading, puzzles, and interactive games, helping them stay mentally active and motivated during treatment.

Why This Matters for Survival

Continuity in treatment is critical for children with cancer. Missing appointments or interrupting care can reduce their chances of recovery. However, emotional distress and fear often make it difficult to continue.

The playroom helps address these challenges by creating a positive and supportive environment. When children feel safe and accompanied, they are more likely to return, stay engaged, and complete their treatment—directly supporting better survival outcomes.

A Space That Restores Childhood

Beyond its therapeutic role, the playroom restores something essential: the experience of being a child.

Amid medical routines and uncertainty, children are given the opportunity to laugh, play, and create positive moments that help them face their journey with greater strength.

Because of You

Because of you, this space continues to exist.

Because of you, children find comfort, connection, and the strength to keep going.

Your support ensures that they not only receive treatment, but also the emotional support they need to continue it. By sustaining the playroom, you are helping them keep showing up, keep fighting, and increase their chances of survival.

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Nov 23, 2025
A Space That Strengthens, and Truly Transforms

By Maritza Ambrosio Fernandez | Project Leader

60 Food Hampers Delivered: A Gesture That Brightens Homes

This month, thanks to the generosity of one of our sponsors, we received nearly 60 food hampers for the families we serve.

For many of them, these hampers offer a moment of relief in the midst of the financial and emotional strain that comes with a cancer diagnosis.

Parents expressed deep gratitude:

For some, the hampers mean having enough food for several days.
For others, they are a reminder that they are not facing this journey alone.
And for all of them, it brings genuine joy to know that there are caring people willing to support them without hesitation.

Thank You to Those Who Make This Mission Possible:

GlobalGiving friends and Our Generous Local Sponsors

None of this would be possible without the ongoing commitment of our allies.

We want to especially acknowledge GlobalGiving and its incredible community of donors, who allow Manos Unidas por Coatzacoalcos A.C. to strengthen its daily operations and keep essential programs alive, including:

Safe transportation to oncology treatments
Meals for patients and caregivers
Play Center activities and educational support
Materials, supplies, and general maintenance

Every contribution — large or small — becomes a vital piece in transforming lives.

The Play Center is not just a room.
It is a bridge between hope and resilience.
It is a reminder that when a community comes together, even the hardest journeys become easier to walk.

We offer our heartfelt thanks to every donor, sponsor, and volunteer who continues trusting in this mission. Because of you, our children keep smiling, learning, and moving forward with bravery on their path to recovery.

Thanks