Canóvanas mayor ramps up help for residents without electricity, drinking water service

The municipal administration of Canóvanas has been making hot meals available for those residing in sections of the town where electricity and, in some cases, drinking water service has yet to be restored. Mayor Lornna Soto Villanueva said the initiative “not only guarantees that citizens receive nutritious food, but also supports the local economy by keeping small businesses active during these difficult times.”

By The Star Staff

While 40% of homes in Canóvanas remain in darkness, with some areas lit only by moonlight and many streets still without power, Mayor Lornna Soto Villanueva has stepped up actions to support the community during the prolonged emergency brought about by Tropical Storm Ernesto’s passage last week.

In addition to electrical problems, several areas lack drinking water and telecommunications remain weak, further complicating the situation for residents, the mayor said.

“We cannot allow our people to suffer in silence as they face this crisis. There is a lot of tension and this can escalate,” Soto said. “That is why we have mobilized small local food vendors, located in the most affected areas, to provide hot meals to those who are still without electricity and water.”

The measure, Soto Villanueva said, “not only guarantees that citizens receive nutritious food, but also supports the local economy by keeping small businesses active during these difficult times.”

In addition to the food effort, the municipality deployed 200 employees over the weekend to distribute drinking water, groceries and essential supplies.

“LUMA and PRASA know that I don’t follow up, I prosecute,” Soto Villanueva said, referring to the private operator of the island’s electric power grid and the water authority, respectively. “We will not stop until I see my town restored.”

“I know what my town is going through, but we ask for your cooperation, patience and to give space to the LUMA and PRASA employees who are on the streets and have been working for you and yours for many hours,” the mayor added. “Likewise, it is important to stay informed through the municipality’s official channels to find out the latest details about the aid distribution points.”