Many
Long Islanders are asking how they can help Puerto Rico in the wake of
Hurricane Fiona’s destructive path across the island – leaving it without power
and with severe damages.
News
12’s Andrew Ehinger spoke with people with deep ties to Puerto Rico.
They said the aftermath of the storm has them harkening back to Hurricane
Maria, which left the island devastated five years ago.
“We're
hoping this time that it will be a little easier,” said Roy Pelaez, who has
cousins in Puerto Rico.
Jose
Gonzlez, of the group Jibaritos With Troops in Bay Shore, is already coordinating
emergency shipments of aid from Long Island.
“They
say its underwater completely,” he said. “The south area is bad, bad, bad.”
Gov.
Kathy Hochul said Monday morning that she spoke to the governor of Puerto Rico
and has pledged the Empire State’s full support and help in the island’s
recovery.
At
Puerto Rico's request, she's sending 100 Spanish-speaking state troopers to the
island to help with law enforcement. Hochul says other aid is en route.
“We
will be there for the long-term recovery,” she said.