Former world No.1 Maria Sharapova returned to Puerto Rico on Monday with Olympic champion Monica Puig for the first time since the island was devastated by hurricane Maria.
A month on from the storm, parts of the region are still without electricity and clean water. CNN estimates that the cost of damage caused ranges between $45 billion – $90 billion. Puig, who became the first Puerto Rican Olympic gold medallist in 2016, is raising money to support those affected. Raising over $142,000 in an online campaign so far on youcaring.com.
“My mother always told me God put me in this world for a reason,” said Puig. “I think the reason is to help Puerto Rico and give hope to people who have lost everything. In this moment that’s what we need.”
According to NBC, the money raised by Puig has been used to buy insulin, solar lanterns, gas stoves, propane cylinders and 200 AT&T pre-paid cellphones.
On Monday the two tennis players visited the San Jorge children’s hospital before heading to the town of Loiza to give out food and water. At the hospital, Sharapova told reporters that her presence in the region was ‘meaningful’ for her.
“I’m so grateful to be here today (Monday).” Said said. “Obviously it is a special day for all of us, but to be able to come to the children’s hospital and share some moments together. Laughter at a time of difficulties for families on this island. It’s very meaningful for me to be here.”
Sharapova is donating all of the profits from her Sugarpova business this year to Puerto Rico. Following the visit, the Russian was praised by Puig for her support. In a Facebook post, she thanked Sharapova for her ‘love and friendship.’
“I cannot thank you enough for all your help for my beautiful Puerto Rico and efforts to raise awareness. Thank you for your love, friendship and support during this time. Together we helped the lives of thousands of people today and this is just the beginning! Puerto Rico will come back better and stronger from this!”
49 people died in the storm on September 20th and over 70 people are still missing. You can donate to Puig’s fundraising campaign at https://www.youcaring.com/victimsofhurricanemariainpuertorico-956371
