Build 10 Roofs + Train 10 Carpenters in PuertoRico

Yolanda, 59, has faced significant challenges since 2021, when her husband passed away. He had been the main provider for Yolanda and their two children, both of whom have disabilities, and was responsible for household repairs. Since his passing, Yolanda and her children have survived on social security, making it difficult to meet their basic and housing needs.

For years, the family lived in an unsafe home, with crumbling floors, roof, and walls, but they lacked the resources to afford repairs. Recognizing the urgency of their situation, the Yauco municipality and the community group Arte Para Unir joined forces to help provide the family with a safe home. The municipality donated most of the materials needed for the reconstruction, but some costs remained uncovered.

Thanks to the help of our GlobalGiving donors, PRoTechos was able to purchase new roofing panels, reinforcing the structure and providing a durable finish before the family’s return. These repairs were completed with the collaboration of apprentices from our Training Program, who took part in the installation of the panels and other essential tasks. This program not only teaches basic carpentry to youth and adults but also allows them to apply what they’ve learned in real projects like Yolanda’s home, developing their skills in a hands-on, supervised environment.

PRoTechos’ Training Program is a cornerstone of our mission, providing free instruction in carpentry and construction to individuals from underserved communities. Apprentices receive both theoretical and practical training in our facilities, with access to tools, materials, and the chance to work directly on community projects. Upon completing the program, many find employment opportunities in construction and home improvement, or even join PRoTechos' team, contributing to the rebuilding efforts across Puerto Rico. This program transforms lives, both of the participants and of the families they help.

The support of our donor community has been essential to making this work possible. Thanks to  contributions from generous supporters like you, we’re able not only to provide safe housing but also to train Puerto Rico’s future builders.