Bronx, NY - This time last year thousands of people were trying to figure out how to survive the aftermath of one of the most devestating natural disasters to occur on the island. Sadly, while thousands have lost their lives since, people in Puerto Rico are still struggling in areas all across the island to recover and gain access to some of life’s basic necessities.
In the fall of 2017, Puerto Rico suffered a massive and deadly hurricane that swept across and literally wiped out communities across La Isla del Encanto. Relatives, friends and any HUMAN being with a heart from around the globe were also impacted and moved to send aid anyway they could.
One local Bronx church, TSF Español El Santuario, decided they were not going to sit idly by or just “lift up prayers” for those in need, but their leaders got together and decided to give back. After all, many of their family members had been, and still are, directly affected and in need of basic necessities. With all the political nonsense delaying aid and the scandal-ridden donations by some of the nation’s largest organizations, the church planned to find a way to directly support and aid those in need. Through the common use of the US Postal Service and finding out the guidelines for shipping various types of goods, TSF Español began the #CajitasDeAmor initiative.
Collecting various donations from canned goods to toiletries, the church would gather donations weekly and sent nearly 50 boxes a week to families, schools and friends who made it their mission to find people on the island in desperate need. Through the support of the congregation, friends and local businesses, nearly 500 #CajitasDeAmor were shipped to Puerto Rico and also to Mexico where families were suffering from recent natural disasters as well.
One UNYC effort to support this initiative was the #SOMOSFAMILIA designed apparel, created to help raise funds for the items and shipping costs for the packages. #SOMOSFAMILIA (We are family) is the mantra/motto of the leadership at TSF Español where they explore what it means to be family. As a family we care for each other. We are not okay until all of our family is okay. The church encourages unity, community and love for everyone they encounter. It’s the idea that when you recognize another individual as family, then you treat them with a special kind of love, one that comes from God. With the support of graphic designer Alberto Lora, the #SOMOSFAMILIA tees and hoodie were sold at iamunyc.com and after services at TSF Español.
This fall/winter season, TSF Español has selected to adopt a school where 22 teachers support and lead the education of 205 students in Campo Sabana, Luquillo Puerto Rico. In support of the #CajitasDeAmor initiative, UNYC will be giving 100% of the proceeds from the #SOMOSFAMILIA shirts and hoodies to help order and send supplies to the school directly this Winter 2018/2019.
On average, $20 can help one student have the basic supplies he needs to get through his school day. Would you join us in supporting the education of these students in need? Visit our online store to order a shirt or hoodie today. You can also donate online at sanctuaryfellowship.org, click on the “GIVE’ tab and note #CajitasDeAmor. Thank you!
Hoodies above available for order online. Go to store section on site. Designed by Alberto Lora.
