Long-Standing Puerto Rican Relationships

The Synod of the Northeast has a long history of relationship with Presbyterians in Puerto Rico, relationships for which we remain grateful and that continue to enrich the life of our community.

In recent years we have sought to build upon these historic relationships for greater connectivity and deeper partnerships.

Hurricane Recovery

When Hurricane Maria devastated the island in September 2017, it was only natural to extend our support and assistance during this incredible time of need.

Just a few weeks after the storm hit, the Synod's Mission & Ministries Commission set aside an initial $65,000 and established the Puerto Rico Partnership Taskforce to help coordinate the Synod's efforts to support our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters.

Knowing that many other aid organizations (including Presbyterian Disaster Assistance) are better prepared and equipped to respond effectively in the short-term, and that the recovery and rebuilding process continues long after the cameras and media move on to the next story, the Synod of the Northeast saw a unique need and opportunity to offer focused support for the long-haul.

While we are doing everything we can to help our brothers and sisters in their immediate circumstances, for us this is not simply a response to a humanitarian crisis, as real and as valuable as that is. For us, these moments and efforts are initial phases of new and deepening partnerships that we hope will flourish in the years to come.

Responding Now

Yet, though we are not merely responding to immediate needs, those immediate needs are indeed pressing and partnership now is crucial, both for the near-term and for the long-term. Here are some of the ways our Synod community is already responding and ways you can get involved: