Congressman Joe Morelle, Local Advocates Push for Federal Assistance to Provide Relief to Puerto Rico Following Earthquakes

Targeted News Service (Press Releases)

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 -- Rep. Joseph Morelle, D-New York, issued the following news release:

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- Urges President Trump to approve major disaster declaration and provide resources to help families in Puerto Rico recover from devastating natural disasters

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Congressman Joe Morelle is urging President Trump to provide federal assistance to Puerto Rico as the island recovers from last week's devastating earthquakes.

"Puerto Ricans are American citizens--and we have a moral responsibility to do everything in our power to help provide relief to these families during their time of need," said Rep. Morelle. "That's why I'm calling on the President to approve a major disaster declaration and provide funds to help the people of Puerto Rico rebuild and recover from these devastating natural disasters."

"Ibero-American Action League is deeply saddened by the earthquakes and power outages that have occurred on the island," said Angelica Perez-Delgado, President of Ibero American Action League in Rochester, NY. "Puerto Rico must gain access to all available disaster aid immediately. We must continue our advocacy here on the main land and ensure Puerto Rico's voice is heard and their needs are met with urgency. Our people have suffered enough."

On January 6, January 7, and January 11, three earthquakes of 5.8, 6.4, and 5.9 magnitude, respectively, struck Puerto Rico--the worst earthquakes to hit the island in more than a century. While there is no full assessment of damages sustained, the earthquakes have left millions of people across the island without power, forced thousands from their homes, and caused dozens of houses and public structures to collapse.

Rep. Morelle and a group of 57 colleagues have sent a letter to President Trump calling on him to approve a major disaster declaration for Puerto Rico and provide federal funds and resources to assist with relief efforts. The full letter is attached.