Mexico lottery proceeds to support migrants in U.S.

MEXICO CITY, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) -- Mexican authorities said Friday that the proceeds from a special National Lottery draw held on Sept. 15 will be used to expand protection programs for vulnerable Mexican migrants, particularly those living in the United States.

National Lottery chief Olivia Salomon said the draw generated sales of 338.5 million pesos (about 18.4 million U.S. dollars), with net proceeds of 115.9 million pesos after prize payouts.

Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente said the funds will be used to support six initiatives designed to strengthen Mexico's consulates and provide better legal, humanitarian and emergency assistance. Related plans involve supporting legal representation, visiting detention centers, boosting consular staffing in high-demand locations, and responding to natural disasters.

"These actions will be carried out with transparency, with quarterly evaluations and public reports," de la Fuente said.

President Claudia Sheinbaum said: "The top priority is to pay bail for our compatriots, which is often very difficult for them to afford." Enditem