Disaster Recovery- Elders, San Antonio Puerto Rico

The elderly has been receiving meals during the weekends thanks to our volunteer who distributes a lunch at the elderly homes.  We are very aware on how a balanced meal avoids malnutrition and other health problems.  Our organization prepares different menus for each day. Nutritional meals improves their energy, their quality of life of them. 

On May 8, 2016 was Mother's Day and  22 participants received a present bag which included a towel, a soap, a robe, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, tooth paste and brush.  They were very happy to receive it besides the meal.  Some of the participants said that it was the first present they received early that day.  We were happy to share a something  that shows that we care.

The Case Manager drove three (3) participants to medical appointments.  This service is provided to those who do not have someone to take them to the appoitment or because of the lack of transportation.  The Case Manager also went to some government offices to help seven (7) participants in the process related to the food coupons and health plan documentation.  

One of our male participant celebrate his birthday during this period.  A small present was given to him which included some basic necessities (towel, body wash, shaving foam and razors).

We appreciate a lot the support of our donors who can make possible that we continue providing these services.

The distribution of meals for the elderly during weekends continued with the help of our volunteers.  Some of them came with their children to teach them about taking care of those in need.  One of our volunteers came with one of her sons and said:      "I learned about service with my mother who used to help others in need and took me with her when I was a girl.  We walked long distances to bring breakfast to the sick or elderly, helped with their personal hygiene, prepare lunch for them, washed their clothes, among other things.  My mother did it because she cared for others, it was a voluntary work.  We need to help each other. That's the reason I teach my children in the same way my mother taught me."  Photo#1 is the volunteer with her son and participant.

In January 2016 we also had the opportunity to help an elderly who lived with his sick brother and had lost most of their belongings due to a fire in their home.  We provided them with emergeny groceries like rice, beans, cereals, juice, sausages, crackers, applesauce and some clothing.  Photos #2 & 3.  They were very grateful for what they got from Proyecto La Nueva Esperanza who helped them in a critical situation.

During this period the Case Manager took some of our participants to different appointments in our official vehicle.  Those participants  didn't have anyone who can take them or were without transportation.  One (1) was taken to APS (mental health appointment), one (1) to a TANF renovation (economical help), two (2) to PAN renovation (food coupons) and three (3) to Medicaid renovation.  Thanks to the transportation provided the participants didn't lose their benefits.  Photo# 4 shows one of them going to his appointment.

We are very grateful for our donors for their support.  Our goal is to continue and improve our services for the benefit of the elderly community.