Numerous earthquakes have plagued Puerto Rico since the end of 2019, damaging hundreds of homes and landmarks and forcing thousands of residents to take refuge in government shelters, according to the New York Times.
The biggest one so far—with a magnitude of 6.4—was on Jan.7. It killed one person, injured nine others and left 250,000 people without water, the Associated Press reported. Almost a half million also lost electricity, after the largest power plant in the island went down.
The earthquakes are especially damaging since the area is still recovering from Hurricane Maria in 2017. Almost a dozen aftershocks with a magnitude 5 or greater have hit since early this month, the U.S. Department of Interior released in a statement. Officials say it’s difficult to determine when the aftershocks will become less frequent.
In the meantime, there are several ways to support.
World Central Kitchen
Founded and run by Guideposts cover star Chef Jose Andres, World Central Kitchen, provides food and resources around the world to areas affected by natural disasters. The organization assisted after Hurricane Maria and has deployed a team and cooking meals for those in need on the island.
Direct Relief
Direct Relief is an international organization that works to help people affected by poverty. They also respond to national emergencies. They are providing support for medical services, especially for those in remote areas, and deploying emergency medical supplies across Puerto Rico.
Hispanic Federation
The Hispanic Federation stepped up to deliver assistance to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria and is continuing after the earthquakes. They have a team on the ground focused on short and long-term relief, as well as mental health care.
Americares
A global nonprofit dedicated to providing disaster relief, Americares sent a Puerto-Rico based team the most impacted areas. The team is assisting those who have lost their homes and providing mental health care and relief supplies.
