Disaster Response Puerto Rico Project #39393

Unused schools into Community Development Centers

by Puerto Rico Rises, Corp.

Summary

Over 300 schools were closed in Puerto Rico leaving 27,000 students without a classroom and over 2,000 teachers without a job. It is our intention to acquire 6 of those unused schools and turn them into Community Development Centers with the firm purpose of helping communities to develop, the leader to grow and the individual to empower themselves. Developing educational projects, promoting self-management, social welfare and a robust, diverse and fair economic development.

$150,000
total goal

$147,970
remaining

9
donors

1
monthly donor

3
years

Challenge

Puerto Rico have not yet recovered from the damages caused by Hurricane Maria. The disaster increased the already high index of social and economic problems facing the Island. Poor access to health services, mental health, prevention services and medical treatment. Lack of preparation of people, communities, organizations and the government in the face of extreme events. Violence and crime. 20% of small businesses closed. 80% of the agriculture lost. 42% of families living under poverty level.

Solution

By acquiring the right to use 6 of the closed schools and turn them into Community Development Centers CEDECO, PRR is returning to this communities a common space to be educated and developed. Offer social entities a work space to share for the implementation of their programs and projects, compensating any lack of services provided by the Government. Also provides a food bank, a preventive health clinic, a market and a garden area for farmers. Create jobs, promote culture and increase tourism.

Long-Term Impact

CEDECO will educate 2,000 individuals annually. Will increase the local economy and job creation with approximately 225 new direct and indirect employments in the first year. It will promote the cultural activity of local artisans and artists with quarterly exhibitions. Increase in tourism in each region due to its offer of services, local products, agricultural and cultural markets. Monthly assistance to 250 families per center, providing a total of 18,000 food baskets annually.