Governor Dannel P. Malloy - Archive

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This is the archived website of former Governor Dannel P. Malloy. These pages are being preserved by the State of Connecticut for historical purposes.

Press Releases

09/25/2017

Gov. Malloy: Connecticut Officials Continue to Coordinate Recovery and Relief Assistance to Puerto Rico in Aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria

Puerto Rico Officials Stress to Governor Malloy that at the Moment, Monetary Donations are the Best and Quickest Way to Help Those in Need; Infrastructure Not in Place to Handle Donations of Goods

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that his administration continues to coordinate the State of Connecticut’s recovery and relief assistance to help people in Puerto Rico, which is experiencing widespread damage and devastation in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria.

Puerto Rico’s emergency management officials have communicated to their counterparts in Connecticut that at the moment, the best way people can provide humanitarian assistance is through the giving of monetary donations to organizations who are helping to coordinate relief efforts. The officials stressed that while they understand that people on the mainland United States want to generously donate supplies, the infrastructure is simply not in place at the moment to handle these kinds of material goods, especially because transportation to the island remains extremely difficult and impractical. Monetary donations will allow the aid to reach those who need it through the most coordinated and efficient way possible, the officials communicated.

“Connecticut remains committed to helping our partners in Puerto Rico with any assistance we are able to provide,” Governor Malloy said. “Our state’s emergency management officials have been in continuous contact with their counterparts in Puerto Rico as they make requests for aid.”

“I thank all the Connecticut residents who have supported recovery efforts in Puerto Rico,” Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said. “What relief organizations need most are financial donations that can be used to respond directly to the needs of island residents and businesses. While it’s heartwarming that so many are collecting commodities, the devastation on the island makes it hard to transport, store, and distribute these goods. Recovery will take time, but Puerto Rico has Connecticut’s support, and we will stand with them throughout the rebuilding process.”

Those generously offering monetary donations are also advised that situations like this can unfortunately be opportunities for fraud. Scam charities often solicit funds via email, telephone, and even pop-up ads on social media. It is always important to do research on a charity before giving by visiting the organization’s website, calling to ask questions, and making sure they have the appropriate credentials in the states they operate. Consumers are encouraged to donate to organizations they are familiar with in order to ensure their money is going to the best place possible.

The following is a list of some of the reputable organizations currently accepting monetary donations for Hurricane Maria relief efforts (Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all charitable organizations providing assistance to those impacted by the storm):

Red Cross

Americares

United for Puerto Rico

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