15 years ago, the hotlines 075 began operating to aid and intervene with people who found themselves in a family crisis. The current administration chose to improve that service for which both men and women can take advantage of that service. DIF Tijuana also offers counseling, legal support and even a shelter for abused woman and her family, and for security reasons remain in an undisclosed location.

Carolina Bustamante also said that DIF Tijuana has special therapies for men who may also be victims of domestic violence, and specified that the institution provides support for any man, woman, and the youth or children who may require it. DIF Tijuana this year has also launched a campaign to prevent family violence where in addition to the hotline; they host prevention workshops in their facilities.

Speaking of other problems, DIF Tijuana has now advocated for a nutrition program, where in pantries that they provide to thousands of families in Tijuana, these are nutritional pantries in which they have substituted some ingredients like white flour for whole grains and other healthier foods in an effort to prevent childhood obesity and diabetes. DIF also organizes different events throughout the city, where they explain nutritious diets that citizens can implement in their daily lives.

Carolina Bustamante expressed her hopes for the continuing success of this institution, and stressed how difficult it was for this DIF generation to regain the confidence of the people and spread the word of the programs that they offer.

Speaking of the future, Carolina Bustamante denied any political aspirations. But also noteworthy is that this is the third generation in her family to work for the people of Tijuana, which their public service history in the region begins with her grandfather, Dr. Gustavo Aubanel Vallejo, the first mayor of Tijuana and who also at one point served as the governor of Baja California. An example she continues today with social causes and charitable work.

As citizen of Tijuana, Mrs. Bustamante invited all of the Southern California residents to not be afraid and visit the region. She stated that Tijuana was a cosmopolitan city that has been revived to return to its origins with much to offer to citizens and visitors alike.

"If Tijuana is OK then San Diego's is also OK, it's just a line that divides us," she said.

Brenda.Colon@sandiegored.com

Video : Gerardo.Cornejo@sandiegored.com