More than two and half years after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, the island’s residents are still enduring the effects – and none more so than its children.
With recovery efforts stalled and damage compounded by a recent earthquake, countless families have been displaced from their homes, and many schools remain unopened. Instead, educators are setting up classrooms in temporary tents and parks near refugee camps.
“The situation for families in Puerto Rico is deeply troubling and unacceptable,” said Share Our Strength’s executive vice president Chuck Scofield. “In a nation as wealthy as ours, no child or family should be left behind.”
Thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters just like you, Share Our Strength and the No Kid Hungry campaign have been able to lend a hand.
We’ve provided el Banco de Alimentos de Puerto Rico with the funds to support continuing staff supply trips to three open air schools in the towns of Peñuelas, Ponce and Guánica. With these funds, El Banco de Alimentos is delivering breakfast and snacks to some 1,500 children ranging from 4 to 16 years old.
“Children need food to grow and thrive,” said grants director Liz Evancho. “No matter the circumstances, we’re going to do our best to ensure that no child goes hungry. We’re proud to partner with el Banco de Alimentos toward that end.”
While many damaged schools remain closed, educators are striving to revive the educational system.
That’s why we awarded the American Federation of Teachers Disaster Relief Fund a grant to purchase five tents in the municipalities of Guayanilla, Guanica, San German, Ponce, Peñuelas and Yauco – all as part of their larger project to open 50 temporary classrooms.
These tents will provide a safe space for students and teachers to return to their schoolwork, while the food from el Banco de Alimentos will help children stay focused during the daily three to four hours of schooling.
And as work to rebuild Puerto Rico continues, we’ll look for new resources and ways to support the community in its efforts.
“Rebuilding means children being able to count on a healthy meal and an education,” said Scofield. “Whether in Portland or Puerto Rico, we’re going to be there for kids and families.”
