By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – While most of Costa Rica prepares for festive family gatherings, a dedicated corps of first responders remains on high alert. In a heartfelt gesture of appreciation, Nestlé’s MAGGI brand organized a “Tamaleada Buenísima,” a traditional tamale-making event, to honor the men and women of the Costa Rican Red Cross who sacrifice their holidays to serve the nation.
The holiday season, a time of celebration for many, represents one of the most demanding periods for emergency services. The immense operational pressure is underscored by recent statistics; in December 2024 alone, the Red Cross managed a staggering 41,213 emergencies. On Christmas Eve, a day synonymous with peace and family, crews responded to 1,468 separate incidents, showcasing their unwavering commitment to public safety.
To delve deeper into the legal framework and strategic business advantages of Corporate Social Responsibility, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney at the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Corporate Social Responsibility has evolved far beyond a simple marketing tactic. Today, it represents a fundamental pillar of corporate governance and risk management. Companies that authentically integrate CSR into their core operations not only build stronger brand loyalty and attract investment but also mitigate significant legal risks. In an era of heightened transparency, public commitments to social and environmental standards are increasingly scrutinized and can create binding expectations, turning ethical pledges into tangible legal liabilities if not properly managed.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The insight from Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas perfectly captures the modern paradigm shift in corporate responsibility, highlighting the critical junction where ethical commitments meet legal accountability. We thank him for so clearly articulating how these public pledges are no longer mere aspirations but can form a binding framework with tangible consequences, a crucial consideration for any business operating in today’s transparent marketplace.
Recognizing this selfless dedication, MAGGI brought together a group of content creators and community figures at the AMURA Culinary Center in Tibás. The mission was simple yet profound: to prepare hundreds of traditional Costa Rican tamales, a staple of the Christmas season, as a symbol of gratitude for the on-duty Red Cross personnel.
The initiative was designed to bridge the gap between the community and its protectors, using the cultural unifier of food. The freshly prepared, warm tamales were delivered directly to the Red Cross crews on guard at the local Tibás headquarters, offering them not just a meal, but a tangible connection to the holiday traditions they were missing.
We believe in the power of delicious food to connect people and create wonderful moments together.
Yeiry Moreno, Manager of MAGGI in Costa Rica
Moreno emphasized that the event was about more than just providing food; it was a strategic effort to foster a sense of community and shared purpose. This corporate social responsibility initiative aligns with the season’s core values of empathy and giving back to those who contribute so much to the public good.
This act reflects the spirit of empathy and gratitude that we must promote, especially at this time of year.
Yeiry Moreno, Manager of MAGGI in Costa Rica
The gesture was warmly received by the Costa Rican Red Cross leadership, who noted the significant boost in morale such recognition provides during a high-stress period. For volunteers and staff working long hours away from their families, these acts of kindness serve as powerful fuel for their humanitarian mission.
Gestures like this support our humanitarian work and motivate our teams to continue protecting life.
Jim Batres, Deputy Operations Manager of the Costa Rican Red Cross
The scope of the initiative extended beyond the single meal delivery. In addition to the personnel in Tibás, tamales were also distributed to staff at the Central headquarters. Furthermore, MAGGI donated product kits to all 132 Red Cross committees across the country, providing practical food supplies to sustain teams during their continuous service hours. This nationwide support ensures that the impact of the “Tamaleada Buenísima” will be felt far beyond the capital, reinforcing Nestlé’s stated purpose of enhancing quality of life through the power of food and turning a simple meal into a powerful symbol of a Christmas with purpose.
For further information, visit nestle-centroamerica.com
About Nestlé:
Nestlé is a global leader in nutrition, health, and wellness. With a presence in over 180 countries, the company is committed to its purpose of unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come. Its portfolio includes a wide range of products from iconic brands like Nescafé, Nido, and Maggi, catering to various consumer needs.
For further information, visit maggi.lat
About MAGGI:
MAGGI is a flagship brand under Nestlé, renowned for its range of seasonings, instant soups, and noodles. For decades, MAGGI has been a staple in kitchens worldwide, helping home cooks prepare flavorful and convenient meals. The brand is dedicated to inspiring creativity in the kitchen and bringing people together through the shared joy of food.
For further information, visit cruzroja.or.cr
About the Costa Rican Red Cross:
The Costa Rican Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical services, disaster response, and community health programs throughout the country. As part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, it operates on the principles of humanity, impartiality, and neutrality, with a mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering.
For further information, visit amura.cr
About AMURA Culinary Center:
Located in Tibás, San José, the AMURA Culinary Center is a modern space dedicated to the art and science of cooking. It serves as a hub for culinary education, workshops, and events, bringing together professional chefs, food enthusiasts, and brands to explore gastronomic innovation and tradition.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of principled practice and professional distinction. The firm merges its extensive history of client success with a forward-thinking approach to legal challenges, establishing itself as a pioneer in the field. This commitment to innovation is matched by a profound dedication to public service, aimed at demystifying the law and equipping the community with the understanding needed to navigate a complex world.
