(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that his administration has identified $75,000 in state funding that it will use to provide housing support for residents of Puerto Rico who have relocated to Connecticut following the recent earthquakes that have devastated the island and left many displaced.
The aid comes from the current operating budget of the Connecticut Department of Housing and will be granted to several nonprofits that will administer the funding, including Alpha Community Services in Bridgeport, Casa Otoñal in New Haven, Hispanic Coalition in Waterbury, and the San Juan Center in Hartford. Funds will be used for security deposits and rental assistance.
“Puerto Rico has been devastated over the past two years by a series of natural disasters,” said Governor Lamont. “The citizens of Connecticut and particularly our Puerto Rican community are responding to the call for help by providing housing support for those impacted by this latest natural disaster. We also are especially thankful to the many nonprofits, community organizations, and local governments that have raised funds to support relief efforts. Connecticut welcomes any evacuees from the island during the ongoing emergency response and subsequent recovery efforts.”
“After Hurricane Maria, and again after the recent earthquakes that devastated the island, hundreds of Puerto Ricans in Connecticut opened their own homes to family members seeking refuge here on the mainland,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “The governor and I are grateful for the outpouring of support for these families across the state and we are committed to providing the necessary resources to help our fellow American citizens from Puerto Rico secure safe housing, education, and job opportunities right here in Connecticut.”
“For the past few years, Puerto Rican families have experienced devastating natural disasters, including numerous recent earthquakes, that have left families with no other choice but leave the island,” said Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno. “We are ready to assist these families in finding stable housing.”
“The Americans coming to the mainland are here only out of desperation and need,” said State Representative Geraldo Reyes Jr. (D-Waterbury), who serves as vice chair of the legislature’s Black and Puerto Rican Caucus. “Many are experiencing mental exhaustion issues. We could be a major help if we provide the housing piece. I thank Governor Lamont and Commissioner Mosquera-Bruno for releasing this emergency funding, which is desperately needed to help those whose lives have unexpectedly become uprooted.”