Meeting the CRIT Teletón Yucatán
In 1997, an initiative to support children with disabilities began in Mexico through the Fundación Teletón program. Since then, 24 Child Rehabilitation and Inclusion Centers (CRIT, by its Spanish acronym: Centro de Rehabilitación e Inclusión Infantil Teletón) have been built across the country. These centers offer interdisciplinary medical services including specialized physical, occupational, and speech therapy, early stimulation, neurotherapy, psychological support, and programs for social inclusion.
In Mexico, a major fundraising campaign begins in June and continues through the end of the year. Donations are collected through yellow piggy banks placed in stores, supermarkets, banks, and even on the streets — a tradition known as “boteo.” We all recognize that it’s time to give when we see these piggy banks, and the funds go directly to support this noble cause.
Many of us in Mexico grew up watching the campaign's grand finale in December — a two-day live television gala that shares the stories of children involved in the program. These stories often feature children in difficult circumstances, from remote communities, or with unique needs related to their disabilities. We all eagerly await the final tally and the exciting moment when the fundraising goal is surpassed. It’s always a joyful and emotional moment. But the support doesn't end there — we can continue helping Teletón children throughout the year.
Last year, we raised funds to help Jorge Munguía, who needed a specialized wheelchair. Thanks to the amazing team at CRIT Yucatán, we made this possible. Jorge and his family even visited MEL, where we had the joy of meeting them and seeing his brand-new wheelchair. It was a truly heartwarming experience, and it made us proud to help — all thanks to the collaboration of our MEL community.
This year, our support continues with María Fernanda, a young girl born with a congenital disability. She is one of many children who need a specialized wheelchair to improve her quality of life. With funds raised during the 2025 Mérida Chili Cook-Off and support from additional donors, we were able to help her too.
We were recently invited to visit the CRIT Yucatán facilities and see firsthand the incredible work being done. Alongside members of the MEL board and friends, we explored the volunteer programs across different departments — from reception to therapy — which support not only the children but their families as well. We were especially inspired by the parent support groups, where families can share their challenges, find community, and receive guidance.
The building itself was designed in the shape of a pinwheel, and in fact, all CRIT centers in Mexico are modeled after toys to create a joyful, child-friendly environment. The building is full of bright colors and vibrant energy from the staff. As we entered, we were welcomed at a front desk shaped like a toy train!
We toured many of the therapy areas. In the physical therapy room, we were amazed by a robot that helps children do exercises while engaging with a video game — it was truly mesmerizing. A sensory room completely captivated us: it’s filled with textures, lights, toys, and equipment that help children with autism become familiar with sensory experiences they may encounter in everyday life.
We also visited “El Tanque” — a therapeutic pool where children and their parents do exercises together in warm water that helps relax muscles and improve mobility. We were told it’s the children’s favorite space!
Other important areas include speech therapy and occupational therapy. In the latter, children learn strategies to manage everyday tasks at home — from using the restroom and eating with utensils to dressing up in fun costumes and being in the kitchen. They also learn how to move from their wheelchairs to their beds. CRIT Yucatán is the only center in the country that teaches children how to use hammocks — an essential adaptation in the Yucatán region.
We also had the opportunity to meet María Fernanda (Marifer) and her mom, speak with them briefly, and take a picture together.
The tour ended at the chapel, where we learned that religious ceremonies are held for families who wish to participate.
A very important point to highlight: CRIT offers physical therapy to the general public at an affordable rate — and for every therapy session you pay for, half of the fee is donated to help fund a child’s therapy. It’s a beautiful way to give back while receiving care.
On your next visit to MEL, don’t hesitate to drop a donation in the Teletón piggy bank and be part of this ongoing fundraising for a truly noble cause.
