Gov. Kathy Hochul has officially proclaimed November as Puerto Rican Heritage Month, as elected officials spent Friday teaming up with SOMOS Community Care for a day of service in Puerto Rico. 

The two-month anniversary since Puerto Rico was hit hard by Hurricane Fiona is approaching, and this years SOMOS annual day of service is crucial to the island’s recovery. 

“We are prepared for the extreme weather patterns,” said Hochul. “Whether you’re in San Juan or in the Bronx, we’re in this fight together.” 

Hochul said 19,000 pounds of food were donated from state farms to the Food Bank of Puerto Rico. She also announced a new trade partnership to provide Puerto Rico better access to fresh produce during their recovery.  

New York will also offer mental health resources, first responders drone training, and more to aid relief efforts, according to the governor’s office. 

Gov. Hochul also partnered with Rep. Ritchie Torres and Puerto Rico’s governor to provide easier access to birth certificates, marriage licenses, and more here in the Bronx.  

“The government of Puerto Rico will have a permanent office in New York City that will serve the Puertorriqueños of New York state,” said Torres. 

The SOMOS team in Puerto Rico says they’re brainstorming the next steps and project needed to help the underserved communities.