Helping Families in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico

Hi. My name is Heather Beebe and I am from Utica, NY. Puerto Rico is near and dear to me and as you know, they have experienced, yet again, another natural disaster Hurricane Fiona. This money will be used for the needs of families in great need in the Adjuntas area. There is no power or water currently.

Adjuntas is a community in the mountains on the South Western side of the island. This region was heavily hit and could really use our help. Together, we could quickly meet this goal to give them a start with the most urgent needs. When one person has $5, that doesn't seem like much. But when 100 people do, that is a lot. Together we are stronger and can make a difference! So, please, do not feel bad or embarrassed if that is all you can do. And, of course, PLEASE share the fundraiser. This helps more than you can imagine.

Back story- In September of 2017, Hurricane Maria devastated the entire island, and I was able to join these people in person and help deliver supplies to over 150 families. We cleared roads, provided potable water, and made food stations for approximately 150 families. The amazing people of Upstate NY were able to help me help them make that happen. I shipped a large pallet of supplies, including a generator for a small business, and carried 400 pounds with me on the plane of baby formula. All of this went to the island's interior parts, which is always the last to be helped. It was a boots-on-the-ground type occasion and we were able to help so many because we did it ourselves.

The same team, led by local residents and advocates for the people, Carlos Rosado-Plaza and Javier Soto Santiago, is doing it again! With law school going on, I will not be joining them this time but I trust them to make a difference quick. These funds will be given directly to them to support the greatest needs. This time is a bit different as the needs are different. The wind wasn't as bad with Fiona but the rain and flooding was worse than Maria. The roads still need to be cleared from devastating landslides and there are families with no access to water. I'm aware of one family needing a generator for medical, and my goal is to provide that type of help with these funds. Losing power is an ongoing battle in this region and giving them that security can help in the long run.

We all know the government is slow at assisting, and the people need our help now. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for donating, sharing, or however you feel fit to support their efforts! I will continue to post updates, so you can see how this will help.