Airbnb Community Fund awards $150,000 to Habitat for Humanity of PR

By THE STAR STAFF

Puerto Rico will receive a new boost to its affordable housing and reconstruction efforts through a $150,000 donation from the Airbnb Community Fund to Habitat for Humanity of Puerto Rico, the nonprofit announced.

The contribution will support the organization’s programs focused on expanding access to safe housing, repairing storm‑damaged homes and strengthening family resilience amid increasingly severe weather events.

The Airbnb Community Fund, launched in 2020, directs resources to organizations working in environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, affordable housing, and the prevention of abuse and exploitation. This year, Airbnb’s host community in Puerto Rico selected Habitat for Humanity of Puerto Rico as the local recipient.

Through its islandwide programs, Habitat for Humanity of Puerto Rico works with low‑ and moderate‑income families to improve housing stability, offering homeownership opportunities, critical home repairs and education initiatives that help families build long‑term self‑sufficiency. The organization also coordinates volunteer groups from private companies and community organizations to support rehabilitation projects and expand the reach of its services. As part of the new partnership, local Airbnb hosts will be able to participate in home repair projects and workshops.

“As Puerto Rico faces a historic crisis in affordable housing, this support from the Airbnb Community Fund directly empowers families whose lives -- and future generations -- are transformed through access to a safe, stable home,” said Karla Peña, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Puerto Rico. “It strengthens Habitat’s work to preserve housing and expand pathways to homeownership for those who need it most.”

Carlos Muñoz, Airbnb’s director of public policy for Central America and the Caribbean, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to supporting organizations with deep community ties.

“In Puerto Rico, where there is significant potential for housing rehabilitation, organizations such as Habitat for Humanity of Puerto Rico play a key role in helping more families gain access to safe, stable housing and remain in their communities,” he said.

The donation is part of Airbnb’s global pledge to distribute $100 million through the Community Fund by 2030. Since 2020, Airbnb has donated more than $480,000 to organizations in Puerto Rico, including the EcoExploratorio: Puerto Rico Science Museum.