Making a Difference: Non-Profit for Children in Playas del Coco
Fundación Sonrisas is a local non-profit for children in Playas del Coco bringing joy, food, and hope to children in our community. Behind the beaches and tourist bustle, there’s a small but powerful movement changing lives one meal, one hug, one smile at a time. It’s called Fundación Sonrisas, and it’s doing something simple yet profound, it’s showing children they are seen, valued, and loved.
Founded by local residents Jeannette Rodríguez and Michel Ávila, Fundación Sonrisas a non-profit for children in Playas del Coco began with a pot of food and a deep calling to serve. After a life-changing mission trip to Cuba, Jeannette returned home with a renewed purpose. Together with Michel and a few friends, they started cooking in their own kitchen and serving meals to children in need. That humble act has grown into a structured community foundation now serving over 100 children in Playas del Coco every week.
More Than Just a Meal
Every Saturday, Fundación Sonrisas opens its doors to feed the body and soul. Children receive two nutritious meals, play, learn values rooted in kindness and respect, and experience what it feels like to belong.
But it doesn’t stop there.
They run workshops in art, music, reading, and life skills, organize environmental cleanups, host tree planting days, and even offer free medical fairs for children and their families. And when holidays roll around such as Christmas, Children’s Day, birthdays, the team makes sure every child feels celebrated.
It’s all powered by local volunteers, support from expats, visiting tourists, and donors who believe in something bigger than themselves.
Why It Matters
How Fundación Sonrisas a non-profit for children in Playas del Coco Is Changing Lives
In a town known for sunshine, beaches and diving, it’s easy to assume everything is perfect. But like many places in Costa Rica, Coco has its quiet challenges such as families who struggle, children who fall through the cracks, and communities that need just a little more love.
Fundación Sonrisas is stepping into that gap.
They provide more than services, they offer hope, and this hope has a ripple effect. Children who feel cared for grow up to care for others. Families who feel supported become stronger. Communities that come together, grow together.
How You Can Help
Whether you’re living in Coco full-time, visiting for a week, or following from afar, there’s a place for you here.
- Volunteer for a Saturday. Serve a meal, lead a craft, share your skills.
- Make a donation. Even small amounts go a long way toward food, supplies, and materials. To make a donation visit their website Fundación Sonrisas
- Share their story. Awareness is powerful. Tell a friend, post on social media, or bring a group to visit.
This isn’t charity, it’s community. And it’s happening right here, in Playas del Coco.
Final Thought
At DelCocoBlog, we highlight the people and places making a difference in our town. Fundación Sonrisas is the kind of grassroots magic we love to celebrate. It’s proof that you don’t need a big budget to make a big impact, you just need heart.
And there’s no shortage of that here at Fundación Sonrisas
To support Fundación Sonrisas or learn how to get involved, visit their website or follow them on social media. Every smile starts with someone who cares.
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🔴 Looking for more local causes worth supporting? Explore the Blog section of DelCocoBlog for stories that inspire.
