Subscribe to the NewsLa Casa receives 225K from UMEZ
By Jose B. Rivera
East Harlem - January 25, 2005. La Casa De La Herencia Cultural Puertorriquena received $225,000 for a two year stabilization project. The ceremonial check presentation was held at La Casa’s home on the fourth floor at East 104th Street and Fifth Avenue. The Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone’s charasmatic President and CEO, Mr. Kenneth Knuckles presented the check to Otilio Diaz, Director of La Casa De La Herencia Cultural Puertorriquena. Also present were some of members of La Casa’s Board of Directors, various UMEZ staff, and members of the press. As were Kathy Bensen of the Museum of the City of New York and Mr. John Rivera, of Congressman Charles Rangel’s office.
The infusion of money will allow La Casa to have paid staff and to stabilize the organization so that it may substain continued growth. La Casa seems to be the only local organization dedicated to the preservation of Puerto Rican heritage.
Mr. Diaz has been toiling for years keeping La Casa’s many documents and photos in good condition and accessible to all. The collection is a great resource for those looking to document the Puerto Rican migration to New York City. The Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone should be congratulated for their support of La Casa and for helping preserve an important part of our Puerto Rican heritage.