La Fondita De Jesus

For 38 years, La Fondita de Jesús has provided services to people with different vulnerability factors in Puerto Rico. We developed a continuum-of-care system with services that promote the productive reintegration of people experiencing homelessness into the community and the self-sufficiency and preparedness for emergencies of impoverished communities, emphasizing older adults. There are people with different academic levels, lack of income, physical and mental health conditions, and disabilities, among other characteristics and circumstances. But above all, they suffer from loneliness and isolation. Services provided are as follows: community education, community social work, clothing, showers, lockers, laundromat facilities, food, outreach/case management, clinical social work, health education, medical care, nursing, psychological services, counseling, personal growth services, equity and social justice advocacy, social development and training for self-sufficiency, permanent supportive housing, studies and job placement, digital community library, micro-enterprises, art workshop, recreation, and transportation. Through these efforts, we help reduce the disparity in access to health, wellness, and social services that these populations confront daily. Our organization has been granted government and private funds; also having single audits without findings during the last 15 years. Our stability, credibility, and transparency lead us to create and maintain programs and services diversity for the homeless and vulnerable communities, impacting the lives of an average of 5,000 unduplicated people in more than 35 municipalities of Puerto Rico. Throughout these programs, we can intervene to help them overcome unmet needs and focus on becoming sustainable and resilient communities by strengthening their voice and capacity for self-management.