CLEVELAND — It’s been more than a week since Hurricane Fiona tore through Puerto Rico. Many residents of the island are cleaning up damage and without power.
The New Era Young Lords Ohio chapter has collected donations to be sent to help residents of the island.
So far, the group has collected more than 900 pounds of supplies. Besides monetary donations, the group is also collecting items like baby diapers, first aid kits and clothing.
“I go to Puerto Rico to help people,” said Ediel Rojas, a junior.
Annually, the group takes a trip to assist the residents of Puerto Rico. Rojas said she has a very personal connection to the island and the damage from Fiona.
“My family, for example, is affected by the hurricane,” said Rojas.
He and other students, like Michael Bonilla, volunteer their time to help collect donations and help those living on the island.
Their teacher, Rosa Morales Cruz, said she helps organize a yearly trip to Puerto Rico to help rebuild after the hurricane season.
“We’re helping people,” said Cruz. “You know, we’re helping people that are in need and because it’s Puerto Rico and it’s a U.S. territory, then we have direct access to help those people.”
Donations can be dropped off at Lincoln-West High School or Benny’s sports bar on Fulton Road in Cleveland.
