Triple-S Foundation raises grants to $325K for 13 nonprofits
The Triple-S Foundation increased its annual allocation to $325,000 to support 13 nonprofit organizations working to reduce loneliness and social isolation and to strengthen community well-being throughout Puerto Rico.
Each organization will receive $25,000 through the Foundation’s Social Connection Fund to carry out projects that promote meaningful relationships, emotional health and social engagement.
The expanded funding responds to data showing that social isolation affects one in five adults in Puerto Rico, while one in three experiences profound loneliness. Among middle and high school students, six out of 10 are affected.
The Foundation said these conditions are associated with higher risks of depression, hypertension, diabetes, asthma, mental health challenges and cardiovascular disease.
Through the Social Connection Fund, the Foundation supports programs intended to expand support networks, encourage intergenerational participation and improve mental and physical health for older adults, women, youth and marginalized groups.
“Loneliness and social isolation profoundly affect people’s health. Therefore, increasing this fund allows us to support more projects that transform communities, fostering human connection and empathy,” said Lydia Figueroa, executive director of the Triple-S Foundation.
“We’re inspired to see how organizations from different sectors collaborate to strengthen the common good and create spaces where people feel seen, supported and valued,” she said.
Triple-S CEO Thurman Justice said the decision to increase funding was grounded in evidence.
“Through our Social Connection Fund, we channel investments aimed at strengthening the social capital of communities, promoting supportive relationships that translate into sustainable well-being and health for Puerto Rico,” he said.
The selected organizations will implement a wide range of initiatives, including art therapy and physical activity for seniors, intergenerational programs linking youth and older adults, mental health support for families, services for women survivors of violence, autism-focused social-skills development and inclusive programs for LGBTQ+ communities.
This year’s nonprofits span communities and populations across the island. They include Naranjito Adolescent Program Inc.; Albizu University; Plenitud PR; the Peace Coordinator for Women’s Community Promoters for the Prevention of Gender Violence; New Woman Home Santa María de la Merced with ReCreate, Connect and Heal; Being Family Inc.; Pop Culture Hero Coalition; 10-8 InService Inc.; New School Institute; SER de Puerto Rico; FISH; and Waves Ahead.
