Puerto Rico Beautification Program

After Hurricanes Maria and Irma, many damaged homes have been abandoned and their owners have left the island
Abandoned homes are owned by banks or absent homeowners
Vacants are not cared for making the neighborhood unattractive and unsafe
Abandoned homes leave behind trash and rodent problems
Distressed properties encourage trespassing for illegal activity
Drug dealers create drug dens bringing traffic, drug paraphernalia, and danger to the neighborhood
Families, especially families with children, are exposed to and living among unsafe properties that are also eyesores

The goals of Pay It Forward’s Puerto Rico Beautification program are:

To reduce the number of crumbling abandoned homes in occupied neighborhoods
Engage with the neighbors to communicate the Pay It Forward program
Build excitement for the demolition and encourage participation and/or observation by the residents of the area
Throw an after-demolition community gathering
Deter illegal activity and trespassing
Remove the unsafe building and create a community space for the neighborhood
Create a happier and more family-friendly place to live

Pay It Forward looks to raise $50,000 per home beautification. Your poster purchase will help fund the Puerto Rico Beautification Program.

The Pay It Forward program:

Trace the lien or mortgage holder of the property or properties
Purchase an abandoned house or block
Engage with neighbors to communicate the program to provide hope for a better living experience in their neighborhood
Demolish the home and sell the concrete for reuse or crush it for hardscape purposes
Clean the property of trash and debris
Create alternate use of the property, possibilities include:
Fenced in with local artists creating vibrant wall art on the fence
Installing a playground
Creating a community garden
Creating a small community park
Either continue to own and maintain the property or sell the lot for rebuilding