Dominican Republic
Our Story
NPH Dominican Republic was founded in 2003, welcoming its first seven children into a rented home in San Pedro de Macorís. As the organization grew, it expanded its support beyond residential care by launching education, healthcare, and community programs for nearby families. In 2005, the children moved into Casa Santa Ana, a permanent family-style home that continues to serve as the heart of NPH’s work in the country.
Over the past two decades, NPH Dominican Republic has grown into a thriving community offering residential care, education, healthcare, vocational training, and outreach programs. In 2018, a transition home was opened to support vulnerable children and promote family reintegration. Today, more than 110 children live in NPH’s residential care, while over 400 children in surrounding communities receive the support and opportunities they need to build brighter futures.
Our Core Areas of Focus
Family and Community Strengthening
Keeping children connected to their families and communities is at the heart of NPH Dominican Republic’s work. In close collaboration with the government agency CONANI, NPH works to connect and reconnect children with their biological families whenever possible. When children are unable to live with their families, Casa Santa Ana provides a safe, caring, family-like environment close to the Batey Nuevo community, with dedicated caregivers providing support around the clock. NPH also works with families and communities in the surrounding area, providing support such as basic medical care, school transportation, and the restoration of community playgrounds.
Education
Education at NPH Dominican Republic extends from preschool through secondary school, welcoming both residential children and students from surrounding batey communities and neighborhoods. The preschool follows Montessori methods, and the school features a special needs class, daily nutritious lunches, and after-school homework help in the nearby Batey Nuevo community.
Health and Wellness
An on-site clinic handles medical evaluations, vaccinations, dental care, and support for chronic and psychological conditions, with surgical services provided by partner One World Surgery. A sustainable organic farm supplies around 20% of the campus’s food, and an on-site water purification system ensures safe drinking water for all.
Disabilities and Inclusion
Based at Casa Santa Ana, Casa San Marcos provides loving residential care and therapeutic services to 19 people with a range of physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. Support includes speech, physical, occupational, and hydrotherapy services, as well as resources and support for children with disabilities living in the community. The Flying Food Service delivers fresh, hot meals each day to people in surrounding communities who need additional support.
Youth and Economic Empowerment
In the Dominican Republic, NPH prepares young people for independent adulthood through vocational workshops in carpentry, shoemaking, sewing, hairdressing, welding, and mechanics, with additional opportunities in sports and tourism since 2024. Support extends beyond graduation, helping young people find internships, pursue higher education, and navigate important milestones such as finding their first apartment. The Chicas Poderosas initiative empowers young women to develop their abilities, build confidence, and reach their full potential.
General Facts
The Dominican Republic is home to approximately 11.5 million people, making it one of the largest nations in the Caribbean.
Nearly one in four Dominicans is under the age of 18, highlighting the importance of investing in children and young people.
About one in five people lives in poverty, with vulnerable families facing ongoing barriers to opportunity and economic security.
Primary school completion rates in the Dominican Republic are close to 99%, though secondary-age youth face a much steeper drop-off, with around 17% of secondary school-age boys out of school.
Your Support at Work
683
Children, young people, and families participated in NPH Dominican Republic’s programs in 2025.
543
Children, young people and families received support through NPH Dominican Republic’s residential and community programs in 2025.
180
Graduations across all levels of education, from preschool to university and technical education, supported through NPH programs in 2025.
Give Now
Every gift helps provide education, family support, and opportunities for vulnerable children and families across the Dominican Republic.
The Difference You Make
A Future Full of Possibilities
At just eight years old, Chantal has already overcome remarkable challenges. Born prematurely and later diagnosed with cerebral palsy, she has been raised with unwavering love and support by her grandmother. Since 2021, Chantal has received specialized care through NPH Dominican Republic, including physical, speech, occupational, respiratory, and aquatic therapy, helping her build strength, confidence, and independence.
Today, Chantal can sit with greater stability, walk with support, communicate more clearly, and complete everyday tasks with less assistance. Every milestone reflects her determination, her grandmother’s dedication, and the life-changing impact of consistent, compassionate care. With each new step, Chantal is building a brighter, more independent future.
Our Story
Discover Our Journey
Explore the moments and milestones that have shaped NPH Dominican Republic.