The Foundation for a Better Puerto Rico has partnered with The Center for Mind-Body Medicine to bring an evidenced-based program of community-based healing and resiliency-building to Puerto Rico. The program is addressing the devastating psychological impact of Hurricanes Irma and Maria and now the earthquakes in the southern region – increases in suicide, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress – as well as burnout and secondary trauma among caregivers. It also helps Puerto Rico build capacity to address current and future traumatic events.

In 2019, we trained 70 social workers, psychologists, counselors and educators from Culebra, Vieques, Fajardo and other affected communities, the communities most dramatically affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. The Mind-Body Skills Group model being used has repeatedly and reliably reduced levels of post-traumatic stress disorder by 80% or more in both children and adults. In 2020, we partnered to take the program virtual. Continuing to train volunteers, run groups and bring this important program to our communities during a pandemic.