Just a few weeks ago, Puerto Rico was hit by two category 5 hurricanes that left the entire island without power and 90% of the island's residents without drinkable water. The devastation from the storms, and subsequent horrors it has caused the communities of Puerto Rico, has not subsided and residents are still working to survive without food, water, diesel and shelter. Large-scale help has not been forthcoming -- so independent, personal and smaller scale forms of assistance have been the main source of support for people across Puerto Rico.
Our Buffalo schools serve many teachers, children and families who are from Puerto Rico. Buffalo State is also home to staff members - including Exceptional Education faculty Gliset Colón and Awilda Ramos Zagarrigo - who are frightened for family members still in Puerto Rico.
Along with members and leaders of the Buffalo and Western New York Latino Leaders communities, our faculty have identified several ways that you can help in the efforts to provide support to the families of Puerto Rico.
On October 6, a large shipment of physical donations were sent to Puerto Rico, including the most needed supplies (bottled water, flashlights, D-batteries, candles, canned goods, can openers, baby items, etc). A second donation drive will be arranged in the future, but the logistics and person-power to collect and organize these items is challenging. Fundraising volunteers are currently focusing on raising monetary donations.
Here's how YOU CAN HELP...
Stay up-to-date with relief efforts and ways that you can help by liking the Puerto Rico Hurricane Maria Relief Fund Facebook page.
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