Puerto Rico
In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017, WCK conducted an agricultural assessment and found that a vast majority of the island’s food – 85% – was imported from the mainland. WCK determined that the best way to support Puerto Rico’s food system was by helping the local food community.With a strong support of sustainable practices throughout the supply chain, the Food Producer Network is already contributing to improved access to locally produced food for all Puerto Ricans. We aim to strengthen the overall food economy and help reduce the island’s high rate of food imports. In the process, we are also helping the island’s food system build resilience against future disasters.
FPN in Puerto Rico by the numbers
Invested
Grants Distributed
Alexander Maldonado
Alexander Maldonado
When it comes to fishing, Alexander Maldonado is a master of the craft. He has been a full-time fisher for over 20 years, and is a leading advocate for fishers in Islote, the community where he was born and raised. With his WCK grant, Alexander purchased a new engine for his boat, as well as a trailer, and an ice maker. These valuable tools increased his daily catch and sales. Alexander also assists other local fishers who do not have access to a trailer or ice maker of their own.
Rosa Martínez
Katahdor
In 2017, Rosa Martínez founded her farm, Katahdor, with one orphan lamb. Since then, the number of lambs has grown to nearly 100, and Rosa has become a trusted adviser to food producers across the island. Always looking at ways to improve her products, Rosa used her WCK grant to invest in higher quality feed for her lambs, which improves both their health and the quality of their meat. She also purchased an animal food storage silo to store the feed.
Juan Torres Ramos
Juan Torres Ramos
Like so many food producers on the island, the 2017 hurricane season devastated Juan Torres Ramos’ farm. Since then, Juan has restarted production and is working to grow his business. To support these efforts, Juan will use his WCK grant to purchase an all-terrain utility vehicle to efficiently transport materials, crops, and staff throughout his farm. Juan is passionate about making his products available throughout the island and with WCK’s support is moving closer towards achieving that goal.
