With the 2018 Hurricane storm season underway, we recognize the need for our services in Puerto Rico will be greater than ever. Our teams continue to work to re-home families into safe, secure housing and we are pleased to report the completion of twenty homes in the Guaynabo and Loiza areas.
People living in disaster-affected communities across Puerto Rico may not have the tools, equipment or skills to rebuild their homes, but they are determined to help us help them in whatever way they can. The love and grace in which they’ve welcomed our volunteer teams into their homes has us filled with awe! Over the past few weeks, several of our homeowners have prepared lunch for the teams working on their homes. As volunteers sit down together with the family, sharing experiences, stories, laughter, and tears, it is clear to see that this is a journey shared. The people of Puerto Rico inspire us with their kindness and generosity of spirit. We are more determined than ever to provide safer housing to more and more families here.
We are delighted to begin our partnership with NY State and Governor Andrew Cuomo, UNICEF USA, The State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY) this month. Through this partnership, a total of 300 students were selected to join us over the summer. On June 17th we welcomed our first group of 60 students who will be with us for the next two weeks.
Hear homeowners in Puerto Rico share about how the storms affected them and their experience working with NECHAMA, click here.