ST. THOMAS — In a statement issued on Thursday, Lieutenant Governor Osbert Potter urged Virgin Islanders to support Haiti relief efforts. He deemed the territory as “blessed” for steering clear of the danger of Hurricane Matthew as it ravaged Haiti on October 4, and some parts of the Bahamas the day after. The storm went on to devastate some parts of the mainland U.S. It has been blamed for over 800 deaths in Haiti, at least 22 in North Carolina where heavy flooding has ruined communities. And it has also been blamed for the deaths of at least 12 people in Florida.
“We should consider ourselves blessed, and continue to thank the Almighty for sparing us the potential devastation experienced along the hurricane path,” Mr. Potter said. “However, our Caribbean neighbors in Haiti are suffering and they need immediate relief. We cannot stand by and turn our backs to them during their time of need. We must join hands in solidarity with Haiti. I encourage all Virgin Islanders to show their support by donating to relief drives that are geared specifically to assist the people of Haiti.”
Mr. Potter, who is serving as acting governor while Governor Kenneth Mapp travels, said that several community organizations throughout the territory have mobilized to conduct hurricane relief drives for Haiti. He encouraged the community to urgently support these organizations, as well as volunteer their time and services where needed.
The most critical and immediate supplies needed for Haiti are roofing and clean water. Rotary District #7020 will be accepting monetary donations to provide supplies needed.
For more information on how to make a donation through any of the Rotary chapters in the territory, contact Jacqueline Heyliger, District 7020 Disaster Chair, at 340-277-3201.
Feature Image: Image: A woman carrying a child walks in the rain triggered by Hurricane Matthew.
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