In the thirteen years I have been with Puente, I have seen teenagers go to college and graduate, entire families adjust their immigration status, and dreamers receive DACA status and obtain work permits and driver licenses. I have seen a basic health clinic open, free fitness classes flourish, our behavioral health team grow to meet complex community challenges, and green card holders become U.S. Citizens. The work at Puente, 365 days a year, has grown many fruits and supported infants and seniors, alike. It is this sense of community and the urgent need for solutions for education, health, childcare and housing that framed Puente’s 20th anniversary celebration this year. Thanks to your generous support over the past year, Puente has: Infused the youngest learners with the joy and habits of curious learners Changed the lifetime earning potential of college-aged students Created life-changing vocational opportunities for local women Increased access to legal and immigration services for deportation relief Offered comfort, counseling, and material support to our community Encouraged voter registration and civic engagement Puente relies on you, our donors, supporters and partners, to continue building the bridge to a community that is healthy, sustainable, and inclusive. Our work, together, is now more important than ever. With deep appreciation, Rita Mancera, Executive Director Letter from Rita 2