“Walking for Life” brings Santa Cruz together to support children with cancer

A campaign built around solidarity has returned to Santa Cruz to help children undergoing cancer treatment. Banco FIE, CRE Foundation and AFANIC launched Caminando por la Vida 2026 with the Eastern Bolivian Oncology Institute and other partner organizations.

The campaign raises money for chemotherapy, medicines, special procedures, hospital services, medical tests, supplies, equipment and other costs linked to treating and preventing childhood cancer. Its organizers describe it as a chain of solidarity involving individuals, companies, organizations and young volunteers.

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We call on the people of Santa Cruz to show solidarity and give a light of hope to hundreds of families who must undergo the difficult process of treatment.

The 2025 fundraising effort raised 2,001,745 bolivianos across Bolivia and supported 150 children with cancer. At the Eastern Bolivian Oncology Institute, 82% of the beneficiaries came from Santa Cruz, while 18% came from provinces and rural areas, including Beni, Pando and Tarija.

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Our role goes beyond the distribution of electricity; that is why we have joined this program with deep pride and sensitivity, a noble and urgent cause.

Marco Claros, Banco FIE’s regional manager in Santa Cruz, called on residents to support families facing the difficult treatment process. CRE representative Roberto Amelunge said the cooperative’s social role extended beyond distributing electricity and described its involvement as a noble and urgent cause.

Oncologist Gloria Rodríguez, director of the institute, said the campaign had provided support in Santa Cruz for eight years, helping families obtain medicines and continue treatment. Traditional walks will take place this year in La Paz, Cochabamba and Santa Cruz.

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For eight years in Santa Cruz, this campaign has been able to offer hope and support families during the treatment of children with cancer until they overcome the disease.