San Juan, Puerto Rico, June 18, 2025 – As part of its commitment to social and community development in Puerto Rico, the Mano Amiga Program of the Plaza Las Américas Foundation and the Plaza Del Caribe Foundation announced the awarding of $265,000 in grants to 25 organizations working in the areas of education, health, art and culture, and women empowerment.

The services that these organizations will provide through these grants will impact thousands of people across the island through innovative and transformative programs that serve vulnerable populations, promote social equity, and provide tools for personal and professional development. Six of these entities are receiving the grant for the first time, reflecting the program’s commitment to continuing to expand its reach and foster new partnerships for the benefit of the country.

The Plaza Las Américas Foundation awarded grants to 20 organizations, impacting communities in the metro area:

• Asesores Financieros Comunitarios supports college students in attending non-profit organizations under professional mentorship.
• Safe Child Coalition educates children and young people about the risks of the digital environment and online safety.
• Instituto Psicopedagógico strengthens independent living skills in people with intellectual disabilities.
• Colegio de Educación Especial y Rehabilitación Integral promotes the social integration of young people with intellectual disabilities or autism through workshops and cultural activities.
• Banco de Alimentos provides nutritional support to children with cancer through snacks and a permanent pantry in pediatric hospitals.
• Fundación de Niños de Puerto Rico offers educational continuity to children with chronic health conditions through classes, art, and tutoring.
• Centro de Orientación y Acción Social (COASI) trains women in high-demand trades to facilitate their entry into the workforce.
• Puerto Rico Museum of Art promotes the Artist-in-Residence Program to promote inclusive and community-based arts education.
• Hogar Forjadores de Esperanza offers academic and emotional support to socially vulnerable children.
• SER de Puerto Rico promotes inclusion through an inclusive choir that develops social and artistic skills.
• ColaborativoPR facilitates the transition to college for public school students in Loíza.
• Caribe Girl Scouts Council supports leadership development for economically disadvantaged girls.
• The University of Puerto Rico – School of Law offers legal and educational services to survivors of gender-based violence.
• The American Cancer Society of Puerto Rico supports cancer patients with financial assistance and transportation.
• Multisensory Reading Centers of PR implements a Spanish-language intervention model for students with dyslexia.
• Ciencia Puerto Rico strengthens STEM vocations in adolescents through mentoring and scientific experiences.
• Friends of Puerto Rico promotes the growth of women entrepreneurs with workshops and business support.
• Fundación Hospital Pediátrico offers psychosocial support to pediatric patients through the Child Life program.
• Sociedad Pro Hospital del Niño creates a sensory therapy room for children with autism and sensory processing disorders.
• Centro para Puerto Rico provides comprehensive support to survivors of gender-based violence, promoting their economic and social reintegration.

On the other hand, the Plaza Del Caribe Foundation awarded grants to five organizations, strengthening its commitment to social development in southern Puerto Rico:

• ProTechos trains young people in carpentry and supports the repair of homes affected by natural disasters.
• Centro Madre Dominga-Casa Belén promotes self-management for women in recovery through therapy and employment workshops.
• The Salvation Army prevents risky behavior in young people through artistic and musical training.
• Para la Naturaleza offers environmental immersion experiences to children to promote conservation and sustainability.
• Fundación Biblioteca Rafael Hernández Colón reinforces reading, math, and leadership skills in children through educational and artistic activities.

“We remain committed to sustainable human development and community transformation. We firmly believe in the power of community partnerships to transform lives and strengthen the social fabric of Puerto Rico. These grants are a direct investment in the well-being and future of our island,” said Lorraine Vissepó, director of the Mano Amiga Program.

The next grant cycle will run from August 1 to August 31, 2025. Organizations interested in participating can stay informed through our official social media accounts and our website, www.empresasfonalledas.com.

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