Documentary highlights New Jersey nonprofit’s efforts to bring solar power to families in Puerto Rico
The documentary, produced by the Puerto Rican Association for Human Development (PRAHD), follows the organization’s Energy Equity for Puerto Rico Project.
More Stories
Community leaders, partners and supporters gathered for a private screening of "A Light in the Dark," a documentary showcasing a New Jersey nonprofit’s efforts to bring reliable power to families in Puerto Rico.
Before the film began, the room went dark as several attendees stood holding candles, symbolizing the struggles many Puerto Rican families have faced with prolonged power outages. For some families, those challenges began after Hurricane Maria and continue today due to the island’s fragile electrical grid.
The documentary, produced by the Puerto Rican Association for Human Development (PRAHD), follows the organization’s Energy Equity for Puerto Rico Project. Through funding from the New Jersey Puerto Rico Commission, PRAHD distributed solar-powered generators to families across the island in need of reliable electricity.
Organizers said the project was especially meaningful because it marked the first time in the nonprofit’s 52-year history that the organization traveled to Puerto Rico to carry out work directly on the island.
“The need is so great in Puerto Rico when it comes to electricity,” said Kim V. Ruiz, executive director at PRAHD. “The power grid is very fragile, and when we saw an opportunity to help, even in a small way, we jumped on it.”
The New Jersey Puerto Rico Commission was established following Hurricane Maria to strengthen ties between Puerto Ricans living in New Jersey and those on the island. Organizers said the partnership allowed them to provide assistance to families still dealing with unreliable power years after the devastating storm.
PRAHD leaders hope the documentary raises awareness about the ongoing energy challenges facing Puerto Rico while highlighting the impact renewable energy solutions can have on communities in need.
The organization is constantly receiving donations to continue its efforts on the island.
