San Juan, Puerto Rico.August 11, 2016. The Plaza Las Américas Foundation and the Plaza Del CaribeFoundation announced the opening of the application period for the 21st editionof the Mano Amiga Program, an initiative that provides support through grantsand other forms of assistance to nonprofit organizations that develop socialimpact projects in Puerto Rico.
The application periodwill run from August 1 to 31, 2026. During this cycle, eligible organizationsmay submit proposals aimed at addressing community needs and expandingopportunities for well-being, inclusion, and development.
The focus areas forthis edition are:
Education: Onlyprograms offering tutoring or curriculum supplements for early childhood,vocational and college access, as well as educational programs designed forpeople with disabilities, will be evaluated.
Arts and Culture:Artistic training programs in music, dance, theater, painting, crafts, andliterature will be considered, as well as initiatives that facilitate sustainedaccess to artistic and cultural activities.
Health: Support willbe provided to programs that offer tools and mechanisms to address chronicdiseases in children and older adults, including cardiovascular conditions,cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Programs aimed at children and youthon the autism spectrum will also be considered.
Women’s Empowerment:Priority will be given to programs that offer tools for the physical, mental,and emotional safety of survivors of gender-based violence, as well asinitiatives focused on helping women re-enter the workforce to promote theirself-sufficiency.
“We reaffirm ourcommitment to continue supporting organizations that have firsthand knowledgeof our communities’ needs. Through the Mano Amiga Program, we continue topromote projects that open up opportunities and contribute to the well-being ofthousands of people in Puerto Rico,” said Lorraine Vissepó, director of theMano Amiga Program.
Since its creation in2016, the Mano Amiga Program has served as a bridge of resources to strengthenthe work of nonprofit organizations committed to the country’s socialimprovement and development. Over its 10-year history, the program has impactedmore than half a million people and represented a social investment of morethan $4.4 million.
Interestedorganizations must complete the application form available on the program’splatform and submit their proposal within the established deadline. To learnabout the requirements and access the application, visit the EmpresasFonalledas website at www.empresasfonalledas.com.