September is a month many Puerto Ricans remember with pain, marked by devastating hurricanes such as Irma, Maria, and Fiona, as well as the 2020 earthquake that once again shook our island. These disasters not only destroyed homes and infrastructure but also impacted the lives of millions who lost access to essential services.

In those moments of emergency, the Círculo de Puerto Rico (CPRI) did not hesitate to take action. After hurricanes Irma and Maria, which caused an estimated $125 billion in damages and left 3.4 million people without basic services. We partnered with Bags of Love to collect and ship relief supplies, filling trucks and containers with essential goods. We also raised $2,550 for solar radios and flashlights, and $3,000 to provide Christmas bags to affected families. Together with Oasis for Hope, we supported the drilling of four potable water wells, ensuring safe access to this vital resource.

In January 2020, when a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck the island while it was still recovering from the hurricanes, it was one of the strongest since the biggest one in 1918, which measured 7.1. We collaborated with Tiberiades Inc. to deliver direct aid. Thanks to this effort, we were able to help an elderly couple with a new washing machine and another person with a refrigerator, mattress set, and other essential items.

More recently, Hurricane Fiona caused severe flooding and a massive blackout. Even a month later, communities like Adjuntas and Guánica were still struggling to obtain drinking water. CPRI, in collaboration with Bags of Love, distributed 540 water filters to alleviate the crisis in these remote areas. We are proud to have been recognized by the Consejo Comunitario de la Altura for our dedication and support during the recovery efforts after Fiona.

Today, we want to remind our members and supporters that these actions reflect our mission: to organize fundraising events to serve the Puerto Rican and Hispanic community in the DMV area and on the island itself, whether in times of disaster or to support students with limited resources or exceptional professional potential who need help completing their doctoral studies.

We invite you to continue supporting us and to take part in our upcoming September events: the “Golf Vacilón Tournament” on September 12 and the “Tribute to Roberto Carlos” on September 15. Please visit the events section on our website to learn more about what we offer and join this cause that unites us all.