Community

Summer Camp in Ponce Brings Joy to Families of Children with Intellectual Disabilities

Published Jul 15, 2026, 11:45 PM ASTvia Primera Hora

At a glance

  • The RedConectando summer camp in Ponce caters to children with intellectual disabilities and their families
  • The camp offers workshops and support services for parents and caregivers
  • The initiative has made a significant impact on families, providing a respite for parents and strengthening family bonds

Why this matters: For families of children with intellectual disabilities in Puerto Rico, this camp provides a unique opportunity for respite and support, allowing parents to recharge and access essential services while their children are cared for.

The RedConectando summer camp in Ponce, Puerto Rico, is a unique initiative that caters to children with intellectual disabilities and their families. The project, which started in 2025, includes activities for the children, as well as workshops and support services for their parents and caregivers. According to Ponce Mayor Marlese Sifre, the camp aims to provide a respite for parents and strengthen families.

The camp offers recreational activities, workshops on self-care, stress management, and crisis prevention, as well as individualized plans for each family. With a budget of over $56,000, the camp has made a significant impact on the families, with one couple able to enjoy a day at the beach alone for the first time in over 10 years, and another mother able to complete a long-planned move.

The camp’s activities include trips to the Parque de Bombas, La Guancha, and the Baños de Coamo.

In context (787daily, from public data)

  • Ponce

    132,760Census estimate, 2020–20241692Founded114.9 sq mi (297.7 km²)Area
SourcePrimera Hora

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