Dr. Ircadia García Guzmán, gynecologist, obstetrician, and president of Los Arturitos Foundation, spoke with Impacto about the organization’s history and humanitarian work, which has transformed the lives of hundreds of children in vulnerable situations across the Dominican Republic.

The beginnings of a calling to serve

Dr. García Guzmán recalls that the foundation was born in 2005. “I’ve always liked to help and be involved with the community,” she says. At that time, she began collaborating with the community of Sabana Yegua, Azua, in D. R., where she met Father Francisco, a priest who supported children whose parents worked as day laborers or domestic workers. “He was seeking help to feed the children,” she explains. “When he told me about his mission, I felt in my heart that it was meant for me.”

A center for nutrition and hope

That’s how the Los Arturitos Foundation was created, maintaining its commitment to children ever since. In Sabana Yegua they built a child nutrition center where children from low-income families receive care and meals while their parents work.
“We provide breakfast, lunch, and snacks. When parents go to work, the children aren’t left alone or exposed. That center continues to operate to this day,” Dr. García Guzmán explains.

Growth and educational support

Over the years, the foundation expanded its work to other provinces, such as La Vega, where every school year it distributes school kits to hundreds of children. “We lovingly call them Los Arturitos,” García Guzmán says. “They receive backpacks, notebooks, pencils, caps, and sharpeners. We want them to start the school year prepared and full of excitement. It’s our way of motivating them and easing the parents’ burden.”

Supporting children with illnesses

The doctor also spoke about the foundation’s work with children suffering from sickle cell anemia, an inherited disease that causes severe pain and frequent hospitalizations. “These children suffer a lot and need constant care,” she notes. “We help their families with food, transportation, and blood donations. We want them to know they’re not alone.”

“Tarde de Té”  with a purpose

Now, the “Tarde de Té” event, traditionally held in the Dominican Republic, arrives for the first time in Philadelphia. This charity event blends elegance, sisterhood, and solidarity, bringing together women from diverse social and business circles, supporters, and friends of the foundation to share a special afternoon filled with faith and hope.
“This tea is not just a social gathering; it’s an opportunity to plant seeds of love,” said Dr. García Guzmán. “Every contribution, every cup shared becomes nourishment, education, or medical treatment for a child in need.”

The event will take place on Sunday, November 2, at 3:00 p.m. at Teatro Puertorriqueño.

Los Arturitos Foundation continues to grow, bringing hope to hundreds of Dominican families and proving that when faith and solidarity come together, miracles are possible.

For ticket information, visit www.fundacionlosarturitos.org.