Want to Help?
What separates Grace from other nonprofits is that we genuinely believe in the competency of those we are helping. Refugees fully staff our medical clinic, refugees are found on our board of directors, refugees are surveyed and consulted before making decisions. We believe in the power and dignity of refugees helping refugees.
our work
We help refugees get back on their feet through general medicine, dental and employment services, clothing, food, diapers dignity kits.
our vision
We want to see a world where compassion and empathy are the norms, a world where love is poured out without measure.
our goals
We are working towards creating communities where refugees can truly thrive and live without the fear of persecution and xenophobia.
our Mission
To help alleviate the barriers that impede the successful integration of refugees into society, aiding the transition from refugee to a neighbor.
Migrants Served
Patients Attended
Meals Served
The health of each individual contributes to the health of the community. For refugees to utilize these opportunities and make strategic decisions, they must maintain a sound mind and a healthy body. They must hold onto hope for the future.
In the two years, GRACE has been operational, we have placed over 40 refugees in various jobs around the city of Cuenca, Ecuador. We maintain a database of eligible workers and work with local businesses to help them fill open positions.
Food, air, and water are the three most essential components that sustain life. However, food remains uncertain. While charitable organizations ensure that refugees are not starving to death, food of quality with good nutritional properties is not typical.
Last year, Grace ran the largest and most efficient free clothing bank in the City of Cuenca. However, due to the growing demands for our medical, dental and other services, we reallocated the Clothing Center into a Nursing Station.
Steve Chasson
President of GRACE (United States)
I have had 30 years of non-profit experience, mostly in administration. As an international volunteer, I have worked in organizations in Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Italy and my favorite Ecuador. The mission and work of Grace drew me in due in part to the great need, but I also saw the model of refugee helping refugee as one of the best. I look forward to spending the rest of my life volunteering for Grace in some capacity.
Karla Sanchez
President of Fundación GRACE (Ecuador)
Karla is a 30-year-old Journalist from Caracas, Venezuela, who immigrated to Cuenca in 2015 and has worked for human rights organizations such as International Press Society (IPYS) and Amnesty International. She is one of the most prominent voices of the refugee community and has been the driving force behind the growth of the best Foundation for Migrants in Cuenca.
A Premature Birth, a Struggling Father, and a Community That Cares
Every morning, as I arrive at our GRACE: Give Refugees a Chance office, I see Alex standing on the corner. He doesn’t have a stall or a stand—just a handful of books and candy, hoping for a few sales to support his family. Despite his struggles, he always greets me...
Local Foundation Offers Help
Jul 24, 2021 By John Keeble GRACE, the Cuenca foundation set up to help mostly Venezuelan and Colombian refugees, is seeing a steady flow of children and adults seeking medical and dental help as the city’s hospitals grapple with Covid disruption. Children under 12...
CUENCA, ON-LINE ISSUE 03
Writed by Bartley D’AlfonsoPhotos: Courtesy of Bartley D’Alfonso Perhaps it was Helen Keller who said it best: “The true test of a character, is to face harsh conditions, with the determination to make them better.” There are many of us retired expats who can weather...
