Hurricane Harvey devastated Texas in August, Hurricane Irma tore through Florida in September, and Hurricane Maria wreaked havoc in Puerto Rico in mid-September. Now, in late October, victims of the massive hurricanes are still waiting for government assistance.
While Trump has declared the response to the tragedies in the two southern states as “A plus” work, it has taken the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) weeks to inspect homes and the property damage from the storms, and residents still find themselves waiting for FEMA payouts.
Additionally, reports have shown that property owners who have called that hotline have waited on hold for hours.
Moreover, desperation continues to rise in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria, especially since Trump’s visit (and subsequent basketball paper towel shootout).
With little aid coming in from the federal government, Puerto Ricans are struggling to even find food and water, let alone shelter or electricity.
With ten hurricanes in ten weeks, this hurricane season has been the busiest in the century, so it’s really no surprise government assistance is lagging.
However, hurricane relief efforts have been almost nonstop, through places like the Red Cross and grassroots fundraising.
In response to the tragedies, Saturday, October 21 saw former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George Bush, and Jimmy Carter stand together at a benefit concert for the hurricane victims.
The current president was not there, but a pre-recorded video of him speaking was shown.
In his video, Trump said, “In the aftermath of these terrible storms, the American people have done what we do best.
“We came together, we helped one another and, through it all, we remained resilient….This wonderful effort reminds us that we are truly one nation under God…”
In a speech by President Obama at the benefit, the former president emphasized the importance of working together to bring the much needed relief to the hurricane-ravaged areas.
He asked Americans to “step up,” adding that the work and [aid] that has been given to these areas has shown “…the spirit of America at its best.”
As it is, Saint Xavier Council is doing what it can to “step up” by partnering with the Residence Hall Association to fundraise for those affected by the hurricanes.
The fundraiser, Snix Snacks, is an on-campus treats delivery system.
On Tuesday, October 24, students can text (708) 320-1785, between 8:30 pm and 10:30 pm with their name, order, and location to have treats delivered to them (on campus) within minutes.
For students not on campus during these hours, SXC will continue selling treats on Wednesday, October 25, from 11 am – 1 pm in the diner.
Treats for the fundraiser include:
“Butter than the Diner,” a gooey, butter-cake cookie, a traditional chocolate chip cookie called “Champ’s Chocolate Chip,” and The BOMB.COM traditional brownie square.
There will also speciality cupcakes available, such as the “All-Inclusive Chocolate Cupcake,” a low sugar, Dairy, Vegan, and Gluten-Free treat; or the “Portillo’s Chocolate Cupcake,” a mini version of the famous Portillo’s chocolate cake.
All proceeds from the fundraiser will be donated to hurricane relief efforts.
Cheyanne Daniels
News Editor