The American Benevolent Society

Americans’  HELPING their own  & others

 

History

Mission:

American Benevolent Society is an Organization dedicated to community service and helping those in need.

 

Founded in 1868 by an group of concerned businessmen and community leaders, the AMERICAN BENEVOLENT SOCIETY (ABS) preceded the U.S. Embassy Consular Services and the U.S. Social Security System in providing services to those in need, especially to Americans living in Mexico. Initially, these needs included helping to find work, providing pensions, scholarships and medical assistance.

The AMERICAN HOSPITAL was founded by the ABS in 1886 in order to provide health care services to the community and to complement the private health care system in Mexico. In 1947, the American and British Cowdray Hospitals merged to form the ABC Hospital, which today is respected as one of the finest health care institutions in Mexico. The ABS works closely with the ABC Hospital and refers needy cases for charity care.

The AMERICAN CEMENTARY is another service provided by the ABS and was founded in 1899. The cemetery property of 7.5 hectares was purchased from the Hacienda Tacuba, and parcels were sold  off to other benevolent societies including the Spanish and British for use as cemeteries. At present there are over 14,000 gravesites and niches at the American Cemetery. It is considered a historic site while providing burial services in a dignified and efficient manner.

During the early years, the ABS also served an important social function in the community through the planning of Thanksgiving Dinners, Presidential Inaugural Day Balls and the Fourth of July Picnics. Later, much of these activities were assumed by the American Society. Today, the ABS is a member of the American Society and participates in the Annual Independence Day Fair.

During the 1960’s and 70’s, volunteerism was at its peak and the ABS had its own women’s auxiliary. The Society also extended services to the greater Mexican community with the preparation of food baskets for the needy, and a used clothing store. The used clothing store “Casi Nueva” is now run by the Junior League of Mexico City.

The ABS also runs Caza Libros, a used book store, which was initially founded during World War II to assist with the was effort. Second hand books in English and many other languages are donated to the store and resold at discount prices. Caza Libros is completely staffed by volunteers and all proceeds from the sales support the social services provided by the ABS.

The ABS managed a rest home for senior citizens, Casa Silby, the facility was closed in the early 1980’s. The focus on senior citizens has continued however; and a senior group known as the “Young Heart Club” was formed which was later replaced by our much appreciated Senior Center. Today, the Senior Center is the Lifelong Learning Center and provides physical and mental activity for people all ages. In 2003, the ABS acquired a mini-bus allowing older participants the opportunity to come and go safely and efficiently.

In 1985, the ABS was one of the first community organizations to respond to the disaster resulting from the devastating Mexico City earthquake. A special program was developed for Mexican amputee victims providing them with comprehensive rehabilitation, counseling, medical attention, economic assistance and prostheses. This successful program was finally terminated in 1991.

The ABS continues to address the needs of the Americans and other nationalities through its Social Service program, offering financial assistance, psychological support, referral services, and home and hospital visits. In 2003, the ABS began “Meals on Wheels” bringing hot soups to people living alone who are debilitated by illness or advanced age. Within the ABS Social Service program are a number of Americans living in Cuernavaca who receive ABS casework services.

Throughout its 136 years history, the ABS continues to address the diverse needs of the community. At present, there are over 400 paying members and volunteers who help support the work of the Society.  In 1995, the ABS started a successful Corporate Membership Program where many companies contribute to the ABS through cash and/or in-kind donations every year.