3,700 gallons ruined our mats — help Gracie Barra Porto Rio

3,700 gallons ruined our mats — help Gracie Barra Porto Maravilha - Rio

We are facing an unexpected situation at Gracie Barra Porto Maravilha (Rio de Janeiro), and we’re reaching out to the global GB community for support.

What happened

On March 8th, 2026, an accident involving our gym’s water fountain caused a major leak.

Due to high water pressure from the 22-story building where we are located, the filter suddenly burst.

Because the gym was closed that weekend, the leak went unnoticed — and by the time we discovered it the next day, the damage was already severe.

👉 Approximately 3,700 gallons of water flooded our school.

Most of the water got trapped underneath our mats, turning the entire training area into a “waterbed.”

Some of the water also spread into a neighboring store, causing additional damage.

What we had to do immediately

To protect our students and prevent mold and contamination, we had to act fast:

• Disassemble all mats
• Remove and replace foam layers
• Dry the entire floor
• Treat the space for mold
• Replace damaged materials
• Set up a temporary training area upstairs

This process is still ongoing.

To keep classes running, we are building a temporary mat space on the second floor while the main area is fully restored.

Insurance situation

Although we have insurance through Banco do Brasil, this type of incident is not covered, as the policy only includes fire and theft.

Financial impact

All repairs had to be done immediately, creating an unexpected financial burden.

Estimated costs:

• Water filter — $25
• Plumbing materials — $10
• Anti-mold treatment — $60
• Increased water bill — $150
• Mat repair & reinstallation — $1,100
• Foam replacement — $400
• Mats + wall padding — $1,300
• Neighbor assistance — $75
• Supplies (glue, tape, etc.) — $100
• Missed classes compensation — $150
• Transportation — $130

👉 Total loss: over $3,500 USD

Note: While $3,500 may seem modest by U.S. standards, in Brazil this represents a significant and unexpected financial impact for our school.

Why we’re asking for help

With approval from our leadership, we launched this fundraiser to recover as quickly as possible.

Gracie Barra is built on community, brotherhood, and mutual support.

If you’ve ever trained, visited, or believe in what we do — your support means a lot.

Our goal is simple:
👉 restore our space and get our students back on the mats safely.

How you can help

Any contribution makes a real difference — no matter the amount.

For international supporters (USD → BRL)

Donations are processed in Brazilian Real (BRL).

If you’re donating from the U.S. or abroad:

• Use your credit/debit card normally
• No Brazilian ID is required
• Your bank will automatically convert USD → BRL

Quick examples:

• $10 ≈ R$50
• $20 ≈ R$100
• $40 ≈ R$200
• $60 ≈ R$300
• $100 ≈ R$500

(Exchange rates may vary slightly)

👉 Even small donations in USD go a long way in Brazil.

Thank you

Your support helps us rebuild, recover, and continue serving our students.

Oss.
Gracie Barra Porto Maravilha – Rio Team