Marc Anthony funding orphanage

Salsa star Marc Anthony is helping to fund the expansion of a cash-strapped orphanage in the Dominican Republic.

The Latin singer formed the Maestro Cares foundation with Chicago, Illinois businessman Henry Cardenas earlier this year and charity officials have now pledged to provide the £125,000 needed for the addition of a residence hall, classrooms and a baseball field for the Children of Christ kids' home in La Romana.

Anthony grabbed a shovel and posed for pictures at a special groundbreaking ceremony in the city on Friday, and he shared a photo of the proceedings with fans on his Facebook.com page.

In the accompanying caption, he wrote, "What a special morning! Today is the beginning of a new phase for the children in need in the Dominican Republic. In the process of building their new home."

Anthony previously visited the orphanage and spent time with more than 200 children there last Christmas.