Redefining Community Development in Puerto Rico

In an effort to redefine community development, a small fishing village on the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, a neighborhood within the greater municipality of Humacao. Through several initiatives, Punta Santiago’s Fisherman Village Association and P.E.C.E.S., Inc., have come together to restore the village, provide enrichment courses and workshops to the fisherman and activities that promote unity and perseverance. With the workshop Marine Mechanics, the fishermen learned about the operation and identification of problems in outboard motors, the components of the outboard motor, as well as develop skills in solving any emergency situation at sea according to manufacturer recommendations. The “First Nautical Parrandón” for the community, several fishermen decorated their boats and along with a speaker system, spread positive messages and joyful music throughout the community with a parade. Electrical improvements were made to the fisherman village, in January 2021; the relocation of the meter base and some improvements to installations with UF @ PVC cable, that also included individual short circuit receptacles for each of the refrigerators in the fisherman storage area, a necessary improvement. In February, the fisherman received COVID-19 incentives for fishing material and equipment, benefitting the small merchants within the community and the installation of solar panels within the Fisherman Village.

In collaboration with other foundations, P.E.C.E.S., Inc. has provided continuous support to the community and specifically those in need, with the distribution of fresh food boxes and other essential supplies. In collaboration with a local catholic church, the organization's Community Sustainability Center has steadfastly coordinated the distribution, which is welcomed primarily by the elderly and disabled population.

In recent distributions, volunteers and employees are welcomed with happy, gleaming faces of the families receiving the fresh boxes in their homes, and blessings as they depart.

Bless your generosity!