Press Releases

Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett has Begun Efforts to Secure Massive Aid Package to help the U.S. Virgin Islands Recover from Hurricane Irma

“The catastrophic destruction caused by Hurricane Irma demands massive amounts of aid to address the overwhelming needs of the countless victims who face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives,” stated Congresswoman Plaskett.

Washington, September 6, 2017
Washington, DC – Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett issued the following statement about the massive aid package she intends to push for to help Virgin Islanders recover from Hurricane Irma:

“Hurricane Irma is a historic storm of incredible magnitude that has ravaged islands of the Caribbean including our Virgin Islands and the magnitude of this hurricane requires the full attention and support of the nation. People have lost their homes, vehicles, important personal possessions as well as businesses that can never be replaced. Many areas of our Virgin Islands have been decimated and are in great need of help.

“This is why I am working feverishly to work on the efforts to bring emergency federal dollars to the Virgin Islands. I am grateful to Governor Mapp and his administration, especially VITEMA Director Mona Barnes, for the work thus far and the Governor’s request for the Expedited Major Disaster Declaration. In the next days I will be sending to the President and FEMA, specific requests to include request of reimbursements and support immediately for the Army Corps of Engineers and other facilities of FEMA.

“Right now, thousands of people are reeling with trauma from of the most catastrophic storms ever to strike the Caribbean region. Hurricane Irma has toppled buildings and leveled many homes. Making the Virgin Islands whole will require a massive and coordinated effort spanning the course of many months, and indeed years. I will continue to meet with local and federal officials to determine the amount of support needed to facilitate the rebuilding of the Virgin Islands.

“As we did following Hurricanes Katrina, Sandy and most recently Harvey, Americans must once again come together with compassion and care. The President and my colleagues here in Congress have said that Virgin Islands will have everything it needs. Moving forward, I remain hopeful that President Trump and Congress will deliver on their words to support the people of the Virgin Islands.”