The official name of the project is Centro Sister Isolina Ferra. It operates in the port section of the beach of Ponce, the second city of Puerto Rico. In this area the poor homeless people squat. The author used the medical dispensary established in the area by the sisters of her religious community as the base from which to begin efforts in the area. The project is based on the principle that a community made aware of its own resources, with a confidence in its capacity to use these resources for its own fulfillment, will come alive and create a life more human and more satisfying for itself and the development of its children. The provision of educational alternatives and job training have helped in the development of a sense of self-worth. Youth and family advocacy and community health programs have resulted in a new vision of a people in control of their lives. The awareness of their capacity for mutual assistance has reawakened a sense of confidence. These efforts have created in Ponce Playa an environment conducive to achievement rather than delinquency or violence. 1 table. (Author abstract modified)