PBMF Hurricane Relief for St. Croix

In September 2017, Hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated the U.S. Virgin Islands.

After Irma hit St. Thomas and St. John the hardest, some of their residents relocated to St. Croix.  Fourteen days later, Maria, a category 5 hurricane, came barreling through St. Croix.

Maria left 70 percent of the structures on St. Croix damaged; many were destroyed.

Many of the residents are without electricity, so some are unable to keep medication cool.  Much of the island lacks access to clean water and a means communication.  Food and personal hygiene items are also needed.

Hospitals likely will have to be torn down and rebuilt.

Longtime Pittsburgh Black Media Federation board member Olga George was born and raised on St. Croix.

Many of her family members, including her mother, are still in the Virgin Islands and other parts of the Caribbean, including Antigua and St. Martin.

As George prepares to travel to St. Croix to contribute to recovery efforts, PBMF is assisting with a fundraiser to help her purchase food, clean water, clothing, a generator, medicine and other supplies that are desperately needed on the island.

PBMF would appreciate any assistance that chapter members and others could provide.

"The Caribbean islands are my roots," George said.

"It's been hard watching various hurricanes wreak havoc on loved ones' lives.  I can't remain safe on the mainland and do nothing.  Every little help is still help.  I'm thankful to friends who want to  help in any way they can."