Ever since devastating Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico in 2017, the island continues to suffer from major losses, such as loss of electricity and damages in infrastructure.

                   To add to this series of losses for the island, waves of earthquakes are shattering the region this month and experts argue that these waves of earthquakes are not done yet. These earthquakes range from a magnitude 3 or higher, with six earthquakes of magnitudes 5 or higher hitting the island as well. The earthquakes have collapsed homes, schools, and triggered landslides.

                   This raises a question: What can the students of VHS do to help?

                   On January 23, 2020, the VHS Spanish club ran a bake sale, with all the proceeds going towards Puerto Rico relief efforts.

                   Senora Calvo, advisor of the Spanish Club, believes “It’s important for students to know that there are detrimental things happening around the world, and that people are going through immense hardships due to these natural disasters. Now due to these series of earthquakes hitting Puerto Rico, there is an air of uncertainty in the islands. It is important for us to be culturally aware of the situation in Puerto Rico, as the island is especially vulnerable now. I encourage all the students to contribute and spread as much awareness as they can!” 

                   Please note, that every donation, regardless of size, helps to rebuild communities that have been struck by natural disasters.

                   There are other ways VHS students can help provide relief from natural disasters. For one, you can contact charities like the local Salvation Army and donate non-perishable food items and toiletries. 

                   If you do not have the means to donate to the Spanish Club or to organizations like UNICEF and the American Red Cross, the best way you can also help is through spreading awareness and encouraging other students to help aid the Spanish Club in their relief efforts. Another way to provide relief is to contact local representatives and encourage them to vote and advocate for funding for communities struck by natural disasters. A list of U.S congressmen and congresswomen is located here. In the meantime, please stay tuned for upcoming Spanish Club fundraisers for Puerto Rico.