Over $200K in relief supplies distributed on Tinian

A relief distribution drive for Super Typhoon Yutu recovery was held on Tinian this past weekend. (Contributed Photo)

The Office of the Governor, through the Office of Grants Management & State Clearinghouse, held a relief distribution drive for Super Typhoon Yutu recovery on Tinian this past weekend.

The project, which was funded federally by the Office of Insular Affairs’ Technical Assistance Program, drew a large crowd to the Tinian Department of Community & Cultural Affairs’ gymnasium. Over $200,000 worth of relief supplies were distributed to assist Tinian in its recovery efforts.

According to OGM-SC administrator Epiphanio E. Cabrera Jr., approximately 750 packages and fuel vouchers were distributed for the island’s residents.

“Items included hygiene and cleaning products, mosquito nets, pillows, linens, water drums, butane gas stoves, butane fuel, and gas containers. Approximately 80 percent of people who received a tent through the TETRIS program availed of additional fuel vouchers, while almost 800 residents received 10-gallon fuel vouchers for generators,” Cabrera said.

As Super Typhoon Yutu devastated the island of Tinian, it has been imperative to provide much-needed recovery efforts to its citizens. This project aimed to provide much-needed supplies for those in temporary dwellings, items of which that could not be purchased directly by FEMA. The award from the Office of Insular Affairs allowed the OGM-SC to collaborate with the Tinian Mayor’s Office to supply basic necessities to many displaced residents.

“Super Typhoon Yutu devastated our islands. Extensive damage was caused to critical infrastructure, and lasting impacts have been made to our Commonwealth. Relief and recovery efforts have been ongoing since the typhoon. While we have made great progress in strengthening our infrastructure, providing assistance to our people will continue to be a top priority,” Gov. Ralph DLG Torres said.

“We would like to extend our appreciation to the Office of Insular Affairs for their continued assistance to our islands. It is because of projects like this that we are able to provide much-needed supplies to the Commonwealth’s residents,” said Lt. Gov. Arnold I. Palacios.

Tinian and Aguiguan Mayor Edwin P. Aldan expressed his sincere gratitude for the Office of the Governor, OGM-SC, and Office of Insular Affairs for all the aid they have provided for the island and its residents.

“The recovery is still an ongoing process that has proven to be very challenging for our people. However, we have remained strong because of the spirit of ina’famaolek. We greatly appreciate all the help that each agency involved has given during these recovery efforts.”

The Tinian recovery drive proved to be a success. The next relief drive, sponsored by OIA and Office of the Governor, for the island of Saipan is forthcoming. (PR)