By Adriana Torres | Communications Strategist
For Maria S., home is where she provides full-time care for her husband and daughter in Hormigueros. Because her daughter lives with a severe intellectual disability, the family’s safety became even more critical as they spent years in a house raised on stilts. Built from a fragile mix of materials, the structure was never truly safe. The breaking point arrived during Hurricane Ernesto, when a significant portion of the roof collapsed, leaving three vulnerable residents in a life-threatening environment.
For a caregiver, the stress of an unstable home is an unimaginable weight to carry. The structural failure meant that Maria had to provide around-the-clock care while the very foundation and ceiling around her family were failing.
The Transformation
Recognizing the urgent risk to this household, PRoTechos mobilized a complete reconstruction. This was not a simple repair; it was a total rebuild from the ground up to ensure the family's long-term safety.
This transformation was made possible by the GlobalGiving community, whose support allowed our team and workforce training students to step in when Maria’s family needed it most. In a vital collaboration with the Municipality of Hormigueros and Senator Migdalia González, we replaced the unstable stilts and crumbling structure with a resilient, safe home. The project included a complete demolition, a new galvalume roof, and updated electrical work—finally sealing the family away from the elements.
Peace of Mind at Last
Today, Maria no longer has to fear the next storm. Her family no longer lives in a precarious environment; they live in a home built to last.
Maria’s story highlights the impact of strong community partnerships and the importance of supporting families who continue to live with the long-term effects of hurricanes. By addressing the needs of families living with severe disabilities, we aren't just fixing houses—we are restoring the right to peace of mind.
Your support helps make homes safe again for families like Maria’s. Every contribution directly helps us rebuild roofs, restore stability, and bring security to caregivers, elders, and vulnerable households across Puerto Rico. Thank you for continuing to make this work possible.
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