TRENTON – Senator M. Teresa Ruiz (D-Essex) issued the following statement on the Hurricane Maria relief efforts announced today in the City of Newark to aid the residents of Puerto Rico. The senator joined a coalition of elected leaders who announced a donation drive and fundraiser to be held in October:
“The residents of Puerto Rico have experienced unprecedented devastation and are continuing to suffer from the effects of Hurricane Maria. During this time of crisis, it is imperative that we come together to help provide the assistance that will be necessary for recovery. I am proud to join Mayor Ras Baraka, Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo, Councilman Anibal Ramos, Councilman Luis Quintana and a growing list of leaders who are working to organize relief efforts for victims of the recent disasters.
“I want to thank the organizations and agencies that have sent personnel and resources to Puerto Rico and those who have already committed to supporting this cause. I especially want to thank the American Red Cross for partnering with the City of Newark and with the broad coalition of elected leaders and organizations working on local hurricane relief efforts.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the people of Puerto Rico and all of those affected by the storms as the rescue and recovery effort continues. Many of us still have had no direct contact with family and friends because of the communications challenges that exist. While that is incredibly difficult for our community, it also demonstrates the severity of the situation and the urgent need to get resources to the island.
“I am heartened by the outpouring of support that we’ve already seen, yet I know this is only the beginning of what will be an overwhelming response effort to aid Puerto Rico in its greatest time of need.”