Contact: Colleen Roche/Samantha Lugo (212) 788-2958
"We have been in direct contact with the Governor of Puerto Rico since the early information about the storm alerted us to its seriousness and we will do everything that we can to assist and help them," Mayor Giuliani said. "Our task force is on alert and ready to help and work with the Federal government. Any humanitarian help or expertise that we can offer directly has also been offered. We are ready, willing and able to help as we have in the past," the Mayor added.
The Mayor's Office of Emergency Management in conjunction with the Office of Deputy Mayor Ninfa Segarra, the Government of Puerto Rico's Office of Federal Affairs and organizations such as the Hispanic Federation commenced an effort to coordinate hurricane relief and fund-raising initiatives to help the islands as the storm approaches.
Deputy Mayor Ninfa Segarra said, "We are working very hard with agencies like the Hispanic Federation, the governments of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic to coordinate the relief effort. We remain committed to provide as much help as possible in the days to come."
The Government of Puerto Rico's Office of Federal Affairs in New York City established a toll free number for information and assistance. It can be reached at 888-212-6982. The Hispanic Federation is coordinating the fund-raising effort. New Yorkers interested in making a donation should call 212-742-0707.