Relief and recovery activities conducted by the Better Research, Better Life Foundation (BRBLF) in collaboration with the Caribbean Primate Research Center (CPRC)

Authors

John L. VandeBerg, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
B. Predovich, Better Research, Better Life Foundation
M. I. Rodriguez, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras
C. A. Sariol, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras
M. Khan, Better Research, Better Life Foundation

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-9-2020

Abstract

BRBLF, a 501(c)(3) non‐profit organization, is dedicated to the advancement of global preclinical research while focusing on the responsible use of nonhuman primates. Its goal is to optimize the contribution of nonhuman primates to biomedical and behavioral research by fostering innovative collaborations, education, training, and outreach. Immediately after Hurricane Maria, BRBLF and CPRC leadership initiated an emergency plan and began to develop and implement disaster relief and research continuity solutions for Cayo Santiago and the Sabana Seca Field Station. The initial action was to provide satellite phones, which enabled CPRC staff to re‐establish stable communication with the mainland and to communicate the immediate needs regarding the stabilization of staff, monkeys, and facilities. BRBLF, with the support of the research community and philanthropic individuals and organizations, facilitated and funded the logistics to ship containers of essentials, including water, food, clothing, mattresses, medicine, solar lights, all‐terrain vehicles, floating docks, and a pickup truck. In December, the BRBLF and CPRC leadership met with the University of Puerto Rico's President and its Chancellor of the Medical Sciences Campus; together they developed and announced a collaborative plan that highlights the building of a new, modern laboratory on Cayo Santiago. The facility is designed to withstand hurricane conditions; completion is expected in mid‐2019. BRBLF continues its commitment to raise funds and awareness for the invaluable and irreplaceable CPRC research resources.

Comments

© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Original published version available at https://doi.org/10.1002/ajp.23065

Recommended Citation

(2019), Program of the Forty‐First Meeting of The American Society of Primatologists. Am J Primatol, 81: e23065. doi:10.1002/ajp.23065

Publication Title

Program of the Forty‐First Meeting of The American Society of Primatologists

DOI

10.1002/ajp.23065

Academic Level

faculty

Mentor/PI Department

Office of Human Genetics