Washington, DC– In the wake of unthinkable devastation caused by Hurricane Fiona, the people of Puerto Rico face an unprecedented level of need to address both immediate and long-term needs on the island. Most residents of the island are without electricity and more than 2,000 people are currently in shelters since the Hurricane hit on September 18th.

“The situation in Puerto Rico is disastrous,” said Congressman Ritchie Torres (NY-15). “The lack of basic necessities for American citizens is unacceptable. The electrical grid is still recovering from Hurricane Maria that devastated the island five years ago. The stagnant response from federal and local agencies to rebuild Puerto Rico has made it clearer than ever that action is crucial to the stability of the island. My team and I are continuing to monitor the situation to ensure that electricity is restored to the island, and that federal assistance is provided in recovery.” 

FEMA has announced that federal aid has been made available to Puerto Rico to help assist in the island’s response to Hurricane Fiona. FEMA has several Individual Assistance programs designed to support disaster survivors. Those in need  can apply now at DisasterAssistance.gov or review the following types of assistance to determine what best suits your needs:

• Disaster Unemployment Assistance
• Programs to Support Disaster Survivors | FEMA.gov
• Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program
• Mass Care and Emergency Assistance
• Disaster Legal Services

Additional Resources:

• Small Business Administration Puerto Rico District Office
• FEMA Caribbean Area Offices
• American Red Cross Puerto Rico Chapter