The Naturgy Foundation's "Sumando Energías por Valencia" program provides opportunities to 40,000 people affected by the DANA storm.

The catastrophic floods in the Valencian Community have uncovered stories of resilience and overcoming adversity. These are firsthand accounts, told by real people. The DANA storm devastated infrastructure such as schools and institutes, and their repair has required time and resources. "In January, we had no heating. We had to ask the City Council to install blue light radiators in the classrooms and bring in generators to power them, because the boilers and the generator weren't repaired until later," recalls Consuelo García Iborra, principal of the CEIP Amparo Alabau school in Alaqu. The school closed for several days to make the space accessible and took in another school that had to close for months due to the DANA storm.

In the Valencian Community, much remains to be done. The Naturgy Foundation is undertaking the challenge of helping those affected with the "Adding Energies for Valencia" plan, focused on people, education, employment, and the environment, and aimed at improving the quality of life of those impacted. In total, the plan will benefit more than 40,000 people. In this context, the foundation seeks to apply its knowledge and 30 years of experience in the Valencian Community. The educational community was severely affected by the damage to school infrastructure, and many children are currently attending classes in temporary classrooms. The Naturgy Foundation will install photovoltaic panels in at least 40 schools affected by the storm and will develop educational and awareness-raising activities to promote environmental awareness.

"When they told us that 40 schools affected by the DANA storm had been selected and that the Naturgy Foundation was offering us this project, we jumped at the chance. It's an ambitious innovation project, and the experience is proving very positive. Furthermore, all the activities related to the environment have been very beneficial," explains Consuelo. The Amparo Alabau Primary School has joined the educational network. Effigy SchoolsThe project, driven by the Naturgy Foundation, offers comprehensive support for a year. "It's not just about installing solar panels and that's it; there's also an educational component at the school, and through the students, this knowledge will also reach their families," they add. "Adding Energy for Valencia" includes energy efficiency measures, the use of renewable energy, energy-efficient home renovations, aid for energy-efficient renovations by social organizations, support for affected schools, and a training plan to promote employment in the energy sector. Volunteer days are also being organized, and forums for reflection and debate on aspects related to the emergency have been developed in collaboration with the Polytechnic University of Valencia. In the educational sphere, the project will impact 130 schools in 38 municipalities, with a comprehensive educational program that fosters inclusion and promotes STEM careers. The forty centers where solar panels will be installed will be integrated into the foundation's Efigy Schools network, and comprehensive support will be provided for a year, along with energy audits. There will also be workshops to introduce science and technology to young people.

The initiative focuses one of its key areas on employment, with theoretical and practical training programs aimed at young people and those in vulnerable situations or unemployed. The Naturgy Foundation thus seeks to improve the employability of residents in municipalities affected by the floods. Hugo Sánchez is currently training in one of the programs. "I had just finished my contract at my last job, in the energy sector. I'm persistent, I was looking for work, and I always like to learn new things," Hugo explains. Material and personal repairs have been the main task for many Valencian families affected by the floods. The difficulties have been immense, and aid has come from various sectors. Private initiatives have also played a significant role.

The employment program offers free training in green professions with high demand. It is run in collaboration with social organizations, public administrations, and local businesses. The courses cover areas such as the installation and maintenance of photovoltaic solar systems, energy-efficient building renovations, and the digitalization of gas networks. Training is provided in partnership with organizations such as Sedigas, Conaif, and others. Platform for Green Jobs and various polytechnic universities.

Maria Eugenia Coronado explains that "after the DANA storm, employment has been severely affected, and there is a great need to retrain professionals for the new reality. That's why we not only train people, but we also support them in a process that allows them to complete internships in initiatives linked to the Plan. For example, participating in the installation of solar panels in schools."