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How Desiree Perez and a group of volunteers are making a difference—one roasted chicken at a time.
This month, we’re celebrating Desiree Perez, a dedicated member of our Advanced Solutions team in Mexico City, whose commitment to giving back is truly inspiring. Every year, Desiree plays a key role in Pollotón, an initiative that brings warmth and nourishment to families in need on Christmas Eve—one roasted chicken at a time.
Pollotón began as a simple family tradition. Years ago, a friend of Desiree’s watched his father collect spare change throughout the year—coins left in bags, cars, or forgotten on countertops. When Christmas arrived, he would use the savings to buy roasted chickens and personally deliver them to families in need. What started as a heartfelt gesture turned into a movement, as more hands and hearts joined in—including Desiree. “On December 24th at dinner time, we meet in several cars to pack boxes of chickens, clothes or blankets to distribute around the city,” Desiree shares.
This past year, the group of volunteers distributed a record breaking 1,000 chickens to the community.
For Desiree, Pollotón serves as an opportunity to instill the values of compassion and generosity in future generations. Desiree’s daughter now takes part in the initiative, mirroring the kindness she’s seen in her mother. “The most important thing for me is that this initiative can be replicated from generation to generation,” Desiree says. Beyond providing meals, Pollotón offers a powerful lesson—showing young people that while everyone’s circumstances may differ, they have the power to make a meaningful difference.
At its heart, Pollotón isn’t just about food—it’s about connection and community.
Through her involvement, Desiree has been reminded of the profound impact small acts of kindness can have. “People need human contact, and what is the best way to do that? By giving a smile, by saying thank you and please,” she says. “Sometimes you don’t even need to talk—when two bright eyes just tell you, ‘I needed this.’ That, for me, is something wonderful.”
Desiree’s story is a testament to the ripple effect of kindness—how one simple act can inspire a movement and bring people together. Whether it’s sharing a meal, a warm blanket, or a kind word, we all have the ability to brighten someone’s day. And as Desiree has shown, the most lasting impact comes not just from what we give, but from the connections we create along the way.
