By The Star Staff
Island Housing Secretary William Rodríguez Rodríguez signed an agreement Monday with Casa Protegida Julia de Burgos that will allow the installation of solar panels and other equipment at the facility that serves as a shelter for women and children at imminent risk of domestic violence.
The $270,000 initiative will be funded through the Social Interest Housing program under Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funds.
“This project will promote energy efficiency, roof repair, and interior and exterior painting of the building of this organization that offers a very important service in our society for a vulnerable group,” Rodríguez said. “Similarly, the project includes the purchase of kitchen equipment, further improving the functionality and sustainability of the shelter. Once again we see recovery funds put at the service of those most in need and it certainly marks a significant step toward restoring the safety of women and children.”
During the signing of the agreement – in which the director of the Governor’s Office, Caridad Pierluisi, also participated – it was reasserted that the objective of the entity is to create a safe and welcoming environment where families can overcome difficult situations and begin the process of rebuilding their lives.
Casa Protegida Julia de Burgos Interim Executive Director Lenna Marielys Ramírez Cintrón said receiving the funds “allows us to transform the Casa Julia shelter into a resilient space for our participants and for the staff who work there. Our shelters are an essential life-saving service for women and child survivors of domestic violence who are in imminent danger.”
She added that “we recognize that, in times of emergency, cases of violence increase and it is Casa Julia’s commitment to provide a safe space where they can take refuge and have the necessary support to build free lives.”
“We appreciate the support to strengthen our shelter and continue our mission to eradicate violence and build a Puerto Rico of equity,” Ramírez Cintrón said.
Casa Protegida Julia de Burgos is an organization that offers protection, safety and immediate support, with a multidisciplinary team composed of professionals in counseling, social work, psychological services and legal assistance.