The barrage of tropical storms hitting the southern United States and Mexico have left countless citizens in desperate situations. Luckily, there are many ways an individual can help.
In the last three months, various parts of the world have experienced devastating hurricanes with thousands of people losing their lives, and survivors seeking aid after losing their homes and loved ones.
One in particular is Puerto Rico, which was hit by Hurricane Maria: a category four hurricane. Maria lashed Puerto Rico with rains that have flooded areas with close to three feet of water. This tropical storm system has caused thousands of people to lose their homes and valuable items, with some losing their businesses.
At one point during the hurricane, a majority of Puerto Rico residents had no drinking water and no electricity to communicate with loved ones. This separated family and friends for quite some time. Puerto Rico electrical grid has been has been so affected that it would have to be rebuilt for it to work again.
“It is a very devastating and sad situation of what has occurred there. They don't have any electricity and lack basic necessities,” said Wright student Desiree Alicea who has family in Puerto Rico.
However, Puerto Ricans did not let this tragic event discourage them. Some citizens have made efforts to help others as well as provide food and water that was left over before the hurricane.
Alicea, who was just recently in Puerto Rico, feels that people should be doing as much as they can in order to help the victims. She recently went to a C.A.P.S (Chicago Alternative Police Strategy) meeting and found out that the Chicago Police 25th district are now accepting donations. Alicea emotionally expressed that people “should donate whatever water, tampons, soap, and canned foods they can.”
Other organizations are taking donations to help hurricane victims as well: The Salvation Army, Emergency Disaster services, Samaritan’s Purse, FEMA, and Direct Relief. These organizations are collecting cash or any items that can help contribute to hurricane victims. These items are, but are not limited to, non-perishable food items, water, clothes, and hygienic products.
When disaster comes knocking it is up to the individual to make a difference, which is what is now possible with these gateways for relief.