Disaster Recovery- Elders, San Antonio Puerto Rico

           Although with some difficulties due to funding delays and other challenges, Proyecto La Nueva Esperanza continues to offer basic services to 66 of the most needy elderly participants in San Antonio, PR.

             For the months of April to July 2023 our cook prepared 3,213 meals which were delivered during the weekend to our  participant homes.  The menu is different each weekend but one of their favorites is the stew because it's soft and some of them cannot longer chew well. 

           Due to budget limitations, right now we only have one (1) housekeeper instead of two. The housekeeper, who is assigned depending of the priority of the elderly needs, is able to assist four (4) participants keeping their home clean and preparing their breakfast and lunch (weekly).   It continues to be challenging deciding which seniors to assist and which to set aside for now.

            Our project provided transportation to medical appointments to six (6) elderly participants as well as helped them to get their medical prescriptions in the pharmacy.   We delivered 20 adult diaper packs and 18 non-perishable food bags to supply some of our elderly participants in need. There is much more need for help with food but we do as much as we can.   

         Covid-19 restrictions are over in most places but now there are upticks all over the island.  Although our elderly have been vaccinated, their health is fragile.  For this reason, we are still distributing prevention kits which include face masks, alcohol, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant towels.  These can provide them some protection against illnesses.

           The blistering summer creates havoc in the elderly. We continue to provide orientation regarding the importance of keeping in the shade, using sun protection when going outside, and drinking enough fluids.

            Our services are limited, but we continue to have a positive impact to the elderly in our community because many of them are alone and isolated. We provide hope, showing them that the community cares about them.  

          In order to raise some needed funds, during the last two months we engaged volunteers to help us sell lunches to businesses and neighbors in the community. Although the proceeds are not sufficient to take care of our needs, it helps some.

         Helping our elderly with their quality of life is only possible thanks to our donors.  Although Proyecto La Nueva Esperanza continues to submit proposals for donations to organizations that have helped us in the past, often they have their own challenges and continue to have providing the funds we badly need.