2025 NEW YEAR MESSAGE:

Kicking off the new year we find ourselves navigating new challenges and opportunities. From natural disasters to a new administration in the United States—and Puerto Rico’s new governor—persistent inflation and an intensifying housing crisis, these pressing issues continue to shape the lives of everyday Americans.

Systemic inequalities have long excluded minority communities from homeownership and wealth-building opportunities. Now, the worsening housing crisis is extending its reach, leaving middle-income families and the working poor from all backgrounds struggling with affordability, insecurity and yes, homelessness.

At Hogar Hispano Inc. (HHI), we remain steadfast in our mission to provide quality affordable housing, stabilize communities, and foster wealth generation and preservation for low-to-moderate-income individuals and families of color. By breaking down barriers to housing opportunities, enhancing access to capital, and driving sustainable economic and community development, we are creating pathways so underserved communities can thrive.

In 2024, we celebrated a major milestone: the successful close of HHI Facility Fund I, a $50 million fund dedicated to acquiring, restoring, and repurposing distressed single-family assets. This initiative ensures these homes remain within communities that benefit the most from stable, quality affordable housing.

This year, we aim to scale our impact:

• Expanding our team and enhancing staff training.
• Restoring properties secured through the HHI Facility Fund I.
• Providing homeowners with resources to maintain and retain their homes.
• Partnering with other nonprofits to reach more communities in need.
• Actively participating in new relationships to expand affordable housing access.

As we look ahead, our staff has shared their personal goals for 2025, offering a glimpse into the dedication and humanity that fuels HHI’s mission:

• Maggie Cabanillas, Director of the Puerto Rico Program, is focused on staying present, embracing the now, and letting go of anxiety about the future.
• Marcos Morales, Executive Director, is committed to self-care and overcoming procrastination while staying fully present in his work.
• Alexandra Astor, Social Media Manager, aims to finish all the projects she starts and stay accountable to herself.
• Damaris Avilés, Bookkeeper/Human Resources, plans to prioritize her health and cherish time with her new granddaughter, Mikaela.
• Tony Morales, Asset Manager, wants to continue his journey of growth through reading and knowledge.
• Juan Barrachina, Finance Manager, is working on cultivating empathy and letting go of judgment to embrace the present moment.
• Pam Sanchez, Administrative Assistant, is determined to adjust her priorities better, not stress over things she can’t control, and take care of her health issues.
• Linda Segui, Portfolio Manager, wants to continue last year’s journey of hard work and enjoying life.

Hogar Hispano Inc. is on a journey of transformative growth. Our team is united in its passion and determination to break down barriers, foster economic solvency, and ensure safe, affordable housing for all—especially for Black and Latino communities that have been underserved for far too long.

Though uncertainty lies ahead, we are confident that our commitment and collective action will create meaningful change.

Housing is a HUMAN RIGHT, and we will continue to fight to protect it for the most vulnerable.

Here’s to a year of progress, perseverance, and hope.

Warm regards,

Marcos Morales
Executive Director
Hogar Hispano Inc.