Relief Efforts Begin In Puerto Rico After Earthquakes Ravage Parts Of The Island
Relief efforts are underway in Puerto Rico after a series of earthquakes -- including a 6.4 magnitude quake that struck Tuesday -- devastated parts of the island.
President Donald Trump has signed an emergency declaration for Puerto Rico, clearing the way for the Federal Emergency Management Agency to move onto the island and coordinate a public assistance effort.
Thomas Fargione, a FEMA deputy coordinating officer, said his team is working out of Caguas to address issues like a lack of power and water.
“We’re helping the local governments and the commonwealth government provide whatever support is required for the folks that are impacted by this disaster,” Fargione said.
Stamford-based nonprofit Americares has deployed workers to Puerto Rico to help with medical care, including providing mental health services.
“What they’re seeing on the ground ... is a lot of families that have been displaced, families that suddenly are finding themselves homeless. And it is a heartbreaking situation for them,” said Dr. Brenda Rivera-Garcia, who’s coordinating this effort out of San Juan. MORE »
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