The Challenge:
Like most services in the island, education took a hit during the 2017 hurricane season. School buildings and other infrastructure were damaged, and reopening was slow and challenging, learning materials were lost, and personnel and students left the island. The earthquake and COVID-19 events brought even bigger challenges to education in Puerto Rico.
How is Hispanic Federation Helping?
Hispanic Federation (HF) is helping organizations that are focused on strengthening the island’s educational infrastructure through innovation and “basic needs” provision.
Who Are We Helping?
Boys and Girls Club (San Lorenzo)
Funds were used to cover general operating expenses for the Boys and Girls Club center in San Lorenzo after their facility in that municipality was damaged beyond repair.
University Student Grants (Island-wide)
Through HF funding, Fundación Comunitaria de Puerto Rico provided emergency grants to hundreds of university students to replace books, equipment and educational materials lost or damaged due to the hurricane. The initiative was extended in 2020.
Escuela Superior Montessori Juana Colon (Comerío)
This Montessori school specializes in working with children with disabilities. These children are even more vulnerable in times of disaster. Funding from HF provided for restoration of furniture and supplies that were destroyed by the hurricane.
Colegio Hogar Angeles Custodio (San Juan)
HF funding will enable the construction of a ramp and a sidewalk in the Rafaela Ybarra Building of the School, thus allowing easy access to people in wheelchairs to the cultural, musical, artistic and social activities carried out in the Building.