Times are tough in Costa Rica, but there's still hope.
Income inequality is on the rise, making it harder for people to afford basic necessities. This is where art and community action come in.
“Yo soy de aquí – Embelleciendo Bajo Los Anonos” is a project that aims to improve the quality of life in low-income communities through art, biodiversity, and public space improvements. It’s a multi-sectoral response to extreme poverty that’s giving people a sense of hope and belonging.
The project is creating a space for people to come together, share, and recreate. It’s also promoting art and culture as tools for social transformation.
"Yo soy de aquí - Embelleciendo Bajo Los Anonos" is a reminder that even in tough times, it's possible to keep smiling and build a better future.
Why "Yo soy de aquí - Embelleciendo Bajo Los Anonos" is important
This multi-sectoral project is making Bajo Los Anonos a better place to live by improving the environment, culture, sports, and social life of its residents. It’s also aimed at preventing crime, and it’s based on the following research:
- People who live in areas with high biodiversity are less likely to suffer from heart disease, cancer, and other chronic diseases (PLOS Medicine).
- Kids who take art classes are less likely to commit crimes (University of Pennsylvania).
- People who live in neighborhoods with murals are less likely to report crimes (University of California, Irvine).
- Art programs in schools can help reduce school violence (University of Texas, Austin).
