The children are exposed to the benefits of educational progress and social responsibility. Casa Ana is a family care center in Azua, Dominican Republic. It was founded in March of 2009 by Maria Marchena, originally a native of Azua who currently resides in the United States. Her intention was to address the pervasive destitution and despair prevalent in the community, especially among the childre
n. There are 30 children registered in the program, which functions as a before or after-school homework help program during the academic year. During the summer month of July, Casa Ana provides a cultural enrichment program. Casa Ana is in partnership with a local clinic founded by a humanitarian doctor- the insurance paid for each participating child also includes every member of the household, thereby making healthcare for the families more readily accessible. A total of approximately 100 individuals benefit from these services. During the academic year, breakfast is provided for the children who attend the morning session. The children who attend the afternoon session receive a healthy snack. During the summer month, Casa Ana provides breakfast, a hot lunch and a healthy snack in the afternoon, in an effort to combat nutritional deficiencies. Casa Ana partnered with a local humanitarian dentist in July 2012 to begin addressing the concern of oral health.
