Over 300 schools were closed in Puerto Rico leaving 27,000 students without a classroom and over 2,000 teachers without a job. It is our intention to acquire 6 of those unused schools and turn them into Community Development Centers with the firm purpose of helping communities to develop, the leader to grow and the individual to empower themselves. Developing educational projects, promoting self-management, social welfare, and a robust, diverse and fair economic development.
CEDECO purpose is to contribute so that the Island can surpass itself after what happened in this particular disaster, but, to recover stronger and prepared to achieve greater equity, prosperity, and justice. The goal is to create a resilient and proactive community that works aimed at achieving better outcomes, with a robust and diverse economy that will result in a healthier and happier population living in a place where everyone wants to live at.
Challenge
Puerto Rico has not yet recovered from the damages caused by Hurricane Maria. The disaster increased the already high index of social and economic problems facing the Island. Poor access to health services, mental health, prevention services, and medical treatment. Lack of preparation of people, communities, organizations and the government in the face of extreme events. Violence and crime. 20% of small businesses closed. 80% of agriculture lost. 42% of families living under the poverty level.
Solution
By acquiring the right to use 6 of the closed schools and turn them into Community Development Centers CEDECO, PRR is returning to these communities a common space to be educated and developed. Offer social entities a workspace to share for the implementation of their programs and projects, compensating any lack of services provided by the Government. It also provides a food bank, a preventive health clinic, a market and a garden area for farmers. Create jobs, promote culture and increase tourism.
Long-Term Impact
CEDECO will educate 2,000 individuals annually. It will increase the local economy and job creation with approximately 225 new direct and indirect employment in the first year. It will promote the cultural activity of local artisans and artists with quarterly exhibitions. Increase in tourism in each region due to its offer of services, local products, agricultural and cultural markets. Monthly assistance to 250 families per CEDECO, estimating a total of 18,000 food baskets provided annually.