San Rafael del Norte, Nicaragua
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General Information
| Population* | 5,917 |
| Number of Houses | 1,397 |
| Avg # of people per home | 5-6 people |
| Number & Percentage of Children |
0-5: 15% 888 children 6-14: 26% 1,538 children |
| Electricity | Yes, connected to the national electrical network. |
| Location | Located 24 kilometers north of Jinotega along the highway leading towards San Sebastián de Yali. |
| Municipality | San Rafael del Norte |
| Department | Jinotega |
| Health Center | Yes, located in the southern portion of the community |
| Distance from compounds | Approximately one hour |
| Road conditions | Excellent conditions |
* Population does not reflect how many patients will be seen on Medical
Brigades as many people from surrounding communities come seeking
Medical Brigades medical attention.
Top Three Needs Expressed
• Construction of latrines or sanitation stations for families.
• The expansion of the potable water system so that all residents can gain access within the community.
• The construction of homes for families to reduce overcrowding.
The educational center of the community was completely remodeled by the Emergency Social Fund (FISE) of the municipal government in 1996. In the morning hours, 331 students attend classes at the school. 258 primary school students and 287 secondary school students attend classes here throughout the afternoon.The student body is comprised of children from many of the surrounding communities as San Rafael del Norte serves as a central hub of education.
A Franciscan Order, supported by community members, constructed a potable water system 25 years ago. The current system, however, only reaches 38% of the homes in the community at all times. This water system is administrated by a local water commitee. The monthly cost to access the system is C$ 30.00 (or $1.14 USD).
This community has a health center constructed by the Nicaraguan government. Here, there are eight doctor's offices, a waiting room and a pharmacy. Without a doubt, the most difficult challenge that the center has faced in the past year has been the large span of time in which there was not a sufficient supply of medications.
San Rafael del Norte belongs to one of the most impoverished regions in the Department of Jinotega. The main economic activities in this community are the cultivation of coffee, basic grains and management of small-scale businesses.
The Ministry of Health (MINSA)
Catholic Church
Evangelical Churches
The Mayoral Office in Jinotega
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAG-FOR. INTA)