Projects

Water is Life—So We’re Catching Every Drop

In Puerto Rico, hurricanes and water outages are all too common. That’s why we’re building hurricane-resistant cisterns and natural pond reservoirs to collect, store, and share water sustainably.

But these aren’t your average tanks—ours are little ecosystems.

• Grow Rare Aquatic Plants – Like endangered aroids and edible lotus.

• Support Wildlife – Frogs, fish, birds, and pollinators call them home.

• Feed the Community – Lotus roots and aquatic crops boost food security.

We’re also constructing storm-proof concrete catchments to keep our forest, rescued animals, and neighbors safe when things get rough.

Because at The Bodhi Tree, no one—plant, creature, or human—gets left behind.

This project is ongoing, and your support helps keep the water flowing, even when the world gets dry.

“Quiet help is still powerful help.”

At The Bodhi Tree, we know that not every student has what they need to succeed—and sometimes, even small support can make a huge difference. Our Student Support Fund helps cover the basics: school supplies, books, uniforms, and other small costs that can hold a child back. We do it quietly, without needing thanks or attention, because our goal is simple: help them reach their dreams.

Nourishing Meals, No Questions Asked

At The Bodhi Tree, we believe no one should go hungry—not seniors, not veterans, not children, not struggling families. If someone needs a hot meal, we’ll be there with a full plate and an open heart.

This isn’t a new mission. After Hurricanes Irma and Maria, I personally cooked and served hundreds of free meals in Vieques to anyone who needed one. That same spirit continues here—feeding our community with love, dignity, and zero judgment.

A heartfelt message from a Viequense I had the honor of feeding after Hurricane Maria:

“Everyone has their own way of showing love. Tisha’s way is through food—delicious, nourishing meals shared with people in all walks of life. Whether feeding those in need, comforting those facing hardships, or simply surprising someone with a hot meal they didn’t expect, her food does more than fill the belly—it warms the heart and lifts the soul.

After Hurricane Maria left us devastated, the countless times I had the privilege of eating one of Tisha’s meals were truly uplifting for my family. It wasn’t just about the food (though it was always incredible); it was about her positivity, her smile, and her kind heart. In a time of loss, she filled a hole in our community with love, dedication, and hard work. Her efforts will never be forgotten.”

Every donation helps us keep the pots full and the love flowing—because food is more than fuel, it’s a reminder that someone cares.

Community Shadehouse Garden: Growing Together, Feeding Our Future

At The Bodhi Tree, we’re all about sustainability, education, and community. Our Community Shadehouse Garden is a vibrant space where the magic of nature meets the power of learning and sharing. This project isn’t just about planting; it’s about empowering our community to become more self-sufficient, and it’s a place where children, families, and neighbors come together to grow, nurture, and harvest food for all.

What We’re Growing:

• Veggies for All: From leafy greens to root vegetables, we’re cultivating a year-round supply of food that’s fresh, nutritious, and available to anyone in need.

• Endangered Plants: We’re also using the shadehouse to protect and grow rare, endangered plant species. This includes both food crops and native plants, ensuring the survival of species vital to Puerto Rico’s ecosystem.

• Container Gardening: Not every plant needs the ground to thrive! Our garden uses container gardening techniques to maximize space and grow a variety of crops, making gardening more accessible and manageable for all.

• Educational Hub: The garden isn’t just for growing; it’s a space where we teach kids and adults alike about growing food in small spaces, using natural fertilizers, and the importance of conservation. By learning hands-on in the garden, future generations gain the knowledge to take care of the land—and each other.

This garden isn’t just about food—it’s about creating a thriving space for community engagement, ecological education, and future sustainability. We’re turning a patch of earth into a place of growth, empowerment, and connection.