Empowering Culebra

As part of our mission to empower Culebra energy system by strengthening its resilience, Fundación Comunitaria de Puerto Rico provided solar energy infrastructure to two anchor non-profit organizations: Asociación Pesquera de Culebra Inc. (Culebra Fishing Association Inc.) y Mujeres de Islas Inc. (Island Women Inc.).

Asociación Pesquera de Culebra Inc. gathers approximately 20 fishermen, promotes economic development and food sustainability for the community of this municipal island. The solar energy infrastructure, already in place, facilitates the continuation of services, not only to serve its members but the community at large. Also, energy resilience will increase the economic viability of the village and contribute to mitigating climate change.

Its members are very conscious of their responsibility for the maintenance of the equipment, and of their crucial role in preserving energy all year long. And have shown commitment to educating the community of fishermen with workshops as well as the community in general.

In the case of Mujeres de Islas, the Aula Hotel in the Sede de Experiencias Vivas de Aprendizaje (SEVA), a lodging of three rooms for people coming to the island to serve the community now has become a resilient space to continue to one of Culebra’s community first responders in the wake of natural events. Mujeres de Islas is also a hub for small business incubation and acceleration, uplifting Culebra’s economic activity.

Both are anchor institutions and become first responders in the wake of natural events. And because of their services, both are crucial in the economic empowerment of individuals and their social and economic mobility. Also, have been key in promoting community convenings and gatherings around the FCPR solarization project.