Akumal Sanctuary Foundation’s Wildlife Rescue Dinner & Auction

The Akumal Sanctuary Foundation is hosting a charity event, "Dinner with a Cause", on the 29th of this month. The event will take place at the Puerto Canal restaurant in Puerto Morelos and aims to raise funds for the preservation of local wildlife.

The dinner will feature a four-course meal inspired by pre-Hispanic cuisine, priced at $950 pesos. Several companies have generously donated products and services for an auction, with all proceeds benefiting the foundation.

For nearly a decade, the Akumal Sanctuary Foundation has been committed to rescuing and protecting endangered species. They have a particular focus on the Spider Monkey and the Howler Monkey, two primate species iconic to the region.

Currently, the sanctuary is home to over 110 animals from 39 species. Many of these animals are victims of illegal trafficking and abuse, and due to various circumstances, cannot be reintroduced to their natural habitat.

"This dinner is an opportunity for people to learn about and support our work. It's about giving these animals, who have suffered from trafficking and exploitation, a second chance," said Javier Martinez, director of the Akumal Sanctuary Foundation.

The sanctuary works closely with Profepa and other institutions to rescue animals and provide them with a safe haven. The upcoming event will include an auction featuring products and services donated by local companies. The aim is to cover the high costs of operating and maintaining the sanctuary, which includes the specific care of each species.

Martinez emphasized the importance of community participation in this cause, stating, "only with the support of the community can this work continue."

The Akumal Sanctuary Foundation encourages the public to visit their facilities. Visitors can meet the animals up close and learn about their individual stories, many of which are marked by the cruelty of the illegal exotic species trade.

The foundation also runs educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife preservation and the dangers of keeping wild animals as pets. They also highlight the issue of species trafficking, a practice that continues to severely impact wildlife in the country.

"Many of these animals arrive at the sanctuary with no possibility of returning to nature due to the aftereffects of their captivity or mistreatment. It's a cultural issue and lack of awareness that we must continue to combat," Martinez concluded.