Redefining Community Development in Puerto Rico

As part of our Redefining Community Development in Puerto Rico project, this quarter marked key progress in the implementation of the Comprehensive Community Resilience Program. On March 10, 2025, we received approval from the Department of Housing for the Verde Mar Community Resilience Plan (CRP), which allowed us to hold a community assembly where residents shared their feedback on their community draft plan. Additionally, we submitted five plans for review by FPR (Playa Guayanés, Río Blanco, Mariana, Punta Santiago, and Tumbao) and held three more community assemblies, directly impacting 94 individuals. To date, six of the ten plans have been approved by the Department of Housing. These plans are essential because they reflect the priorities and solutions identified by the communities themselves to address challenges such as natural disasters, inadequate infrastructure, and social vulnerabilities. Their development and approval strengthen local response capacity and ensure more equitable and sustainable long-term planning.

In parallel, through the Community Sustainability Center, we reinforced our institutional preparedness by participating in the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) assembly, where we attended key workshops on emergency management and multisectoral coordination. Furthermore, thanks to a generous donation from the Diocese of Fajardo-Humacao, we were able to provide grocery supplies to 51 families in the Punta Santiago community, meeting basic needs while continuing to promote a supportive solidarity network. These initiatives not only provide immediate relief, but also foster self-sufficiency, community organization, and the empowerment of local leaders, fundamental pillars for building authentic and transformative resilience.