A Critical Time to Stand with Puerto Rico's Nonprofits: Sustaining Community Resilience Amid Funding Challenges

At Foundation for Puerto Rico, we are part of a nonprofit sector?that serves as the backbone of social progress on the island. Together, nonprofit organizations generate over 150,000 jobs and serve approximately 700,000 individuals, primarily women, children, and the elderly. These organizations provide essential services that the government cannot fully cover, addressing critical needs in education, health, economic development, and social justice. However, many of them rely heavily on federal funding, which is now at risk due to the recent freeze on government funds.?

The freezing of federal funds presents a dire challenge for nonprofits like ours, limiting our ability to maintain operations, expand services, and reach those who need our support the most. Federal government grants are crucial. However, they come with heavy administrative burdens and strict compliance requirements, often diverting valuable time and resources away from direct community impact. Furthermore, these funds rarely cover all operational costs, making it difficult for organizations to sustain long-term growth and stability.?

Nonprofits are engines of social transformation, yet our ability to function effectively depends on diversified funding sources. The current financial uncertainty highlights the urgent need for private donations and corporate partnerships. These unrestricted contributions allow NGOs to cover essential expenses such as staff training, technology upgrades, and program expansion, ensuring that critical services continue despite external financial disruptions.?

Supporting nonprofits is not just about giving; it’s about investing in the future of Puerto Rico. Every donation, regardless of size, helps sustain vital services and strengthens the resilience of our communities. Whether through financial contributions, volunteerism, or advocacy, we all have a role to play in ensuring that the third sector remains a pillar of support for those who rely on it most.?

Now more than ever, we must come together to safeguard the invaluable work of nonprofit organizations. Their mission is clear: to uplift, empower, and transform lives. Let’s ensure they have the resources to continue doing so. We invite you to stand with us and ensure that organizations like ours have the?resources, support, and stability?to continue their essential work.?