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The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has granted nearly $438,000 to three nonprofit organizations focused on revitalizing neighborhoods and aiding individuals in socially disadvantaged conditions.
The financial support was intended for the repair of infrastructure at the organizations whose facilities faced damage from Hurricane Maria.
“These repairs signify a crucial support system for those dependent on these services,” stated Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero. “The allocation of these funds aids in restoring facilities that offer essential assistance for the emotional and economic well-being of these families.”
On one side, FEMA allocated nearly $228,000 to the Trujillo Alto Economic Development Corp. (known as CDETA in Spanish) for renovations at the Aires del Manantial Retirement Home, a residential initiative for low-income individuals aged 62 and older. This establishment, developed through public and private collaboration, was constructed in 2016 in the Cuevas neighborhood of Trujillo Alto, featuring 10 floors with room for 120 housing units and parking spaces.
“CDETA has been instrumental in assisting seniors and those with disabilities by enhancing their access to safe and affordable housing,” remarked CDETA Executive Director Nilda H. Díaz. “Our organization addresses the needs of these vulnerable groups, striving to modify our projects to enable them to live independently.”
The renovation project encompassed several structural repairs, including the replacement of wall panels, the installation of metal railings on the balcony, and upgrades to the bathroom, kitchen, and living areas. Additionally, the agency allocated nearly $28,000 in mitigation funds to strengthen the facility and minimize the risks of future incidents.
Another nonprofit organization that received funding for restorations was the Family Pro-Wellness Association (Asociación Pro-Bienestar de la Familia Comerieña) located in Comerío. The allocation of almost $25,000 was utilized to repair the roofs of all three of its buildings, which included fixing leaks, directing rainwater, and safeguarding electrical devices from voltage fluctuations.
