Puerto Rico House Speaker Calls for Census on Islanders Who Fled to Florida

Speaker of the Puerto Rico House of Representatives Carlos “Johnny” Méndez Núñez announced Thursday that he will soon be holding a series of talks with the mayor of Kissimmee, Fla., José Álvarez, as well as with officials from other jurisdictions in Florida to evaluate the aid that is being provided to the thousands of Puerto Ricans who were forced to migrate to that state after the scourge of Hurricane Maria in September.

“Hurricane Maria has left an unprecedented mark on the history of our island,” the House speaker said in a written statement. “Among the many effects of this devastating atmospheric phenomenon is the most dramatic migration recorded in the history of the United States. More than a quarter of a million of our citizens have moved to Florida since the end of September. That is why it is imperative to know how these people are, the services they receive, including the plans that have been implemented to assist in providing medical insurance, help with the search for temporary housing, and assist in the purchase of food and essential products, among others.”

According to multiple reports, about 280,000 Puerto Ricans have moved to the state of Florida during the past three months. Many reside with relatives, still do not have a job and need help to meet their basic needs.

Méndez said he will advocate for a census of the Puerto Rican community in the afore-mentioned state. He will also be discussing with Álvarez the feasibility of creating support networks, which include social workers, psychologists, educational technicians and financial advisers, among other professionals.

Read more: http://www.sanjuanweeklypr.com/pdf/Jan-05-18/local.pdf
Page 3 of San Juan Daily Star, Page 2 of 6 of the PDF file.