Background: Hurricane Maria in 2017 resulted in catastrophic loss of life and property in Puerto Rico. The human losses may have been lessened by establishment of and robust support for communication software to be used by small organizations on the island. The federal government had previously developed drills and an assessment of strengths and weaknesses in preparation for a natural disaster in Puerto Rico, but it was apparent that the plan did not work as hoped. The top down approach that had been used left out communities that became isolated after roads were impassable and docks were crowded with supplies that were not getting to those in need. Communities need to be able to communicate their needs, location, and status to major non-governmental organizations, local, and federal governments.

Purpose: Modify, enhance, and support development of new communication and geo mapping software that informs key stakeholders about the status and needs of materials and resources by small not for profits and organizations in Puerto Rico.

Approach: Identify and bring together community partners and other key stakeholders to develop or enhance a communication software app, which includes a dashboard of resources and GIS information. Full project objectives include creating a database of needs, establishing partnerships for resource distribution, and developing community organization-based strategies to facilitate resource distribution.