BRICKS TO BREAD COSTA RICA PROJECTS

MARISOL SOLANO LOPEZ – BARRA DE PARISMINA

THE COMMUNITY

Barra de Parismina is a secluded, tranquil village of about 500 residents located on the Caribbean coast. This 58-square-mile island sits between the ocean and the Parismina River, has no paved roads, and is only accessible via sea-plane or boat. Denoted as a turtle conservation area, Parisimina is home to three protected species – leatherback, hawksbill, and green sea turtles – all of which nest on the beaches between February and October.

THE FAMILY

Marisol is an accomplished baker who specializes in savory and sweet breads and pastries, some of which include pre-fermented loaves, bread stuffed with cheese, dulce de leche braids, churros, and cookies, cinnamon rolls, and pizza.

With great devotion to her loved ones and her island home, and a heart for advocacy and equity, Marisol’s oven project will provide for her family while also offering employment opportunities for others. Her brother, Olí, manages supplies and firewood as well as oversees maintenance of the oven and kitchen. Their nephew, Justin, a young adult who has Down Syndrome, earned a small business culinary certificate and helps his aunt with every aspect of the baking process.

LIVES CHANGED

Taller del Pan (“Bread Workshop”) is a labor of love for this family. The only suppliers of fresh baked goods on the island, they will provide nutritious products for residents and tourists, employ other women in their bakery, hold classes where young people and schoolchildren can learn baking and pastry making, and offer jobs to adults with special needs. More than anything, Marisol’s bakery is a safe gathering place where everyone is welcome to learn, work, and flourish.