Fred Rogers Productions Receives Grant for Alma’s Way

Fred Rogers Productions has been awarded a $2.7 million multiyear funding grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) for Alma’s Way.

Alma’s Way, created by actor and writer Sonia Manzano (Maria from Sesame Street), centers on 6-year-old Alma Rivera, a proud, confident Puerto Rican girl who lives in the Bronx. The episodes showcase aspects of Latino culture through music, food, language and more. The new grant covers a range of production, promotional and educational engagement activities for the show.

“CPB’s support has been instrumental in bringing Alma’s Way to viewers all across the country,” said Paul Siefken, president and CEO of Fred Rogers Productions. “The series is already deeply resonating with audiences as it helps young viewers to develop critical thinking skills and an understanding of perspectives of others all while they experience the vibrant world of the Bronx.”

“Fred Rogers was a pioneer in using public television to educate young children and help empower them to solve problems,” said Debra Sanchez, senior VP of education and children’s content at CPB. “Alma’s Way honors Fred’s legacy of inclusiveness by featuring diversity at all levels of production and is a wonderful continuation of his work. We’re excited to support this work from Sonia Manzano, another pioneer who has played such an important role in the history of children’s content on public media.”