The Foundation for a Better Puerto Rico has partnered with The Center for Mind-Body Medicine to bring an evidence-based program of community healing and resilience-building to Puerto Rico. This initiative addresses the devastating psychological impact of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, as well as the earthquakes in the southern region, which have led to increased rates of suicide, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. It also aims to combat burnout and secondary trauma among caregivers while strengthening Puerto Rico’s capacity to respond to future traumatic events.

In 2019, we trained 70 social workers, psychologists, counselors, and educators from Culebra, Vieques, Fajardo, and other hard-hit areas—communities that bore the brunt of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. The Mind-Body Skills Group model used in this program has consistently reduced post-traumatic stress disorder levels by 80% or more in both children and adults. In 2020, we expanded the program to a virtual format, allowing us to continue training volunteers, running support groups, and providing critical mental health resources to our communities during the pandemic.

In 2021, with continued partnership and a grant from United Way of Puerto Rico, we launched a stress-relief and COVID-19 crisis response program. This initiative supported teachers, healthcare workers, community volunteers, parents, first responders, and other professionals on the front lines, helping them cope with the ongoing challenges of the pandemic.