51�Թ�

Epps helps raise $5,000 for Puerto Rican natives  

Lizette Epps, executive director of financial services at 51�Թ�’s for Economic Development & Entrepreneurship has raised over $5,000 in gift cards and other supplies to give out to those effected by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico.   

“Recognizing the humanity of the people in Puerto Rico and those impacted in other countries in a time of devastation is important. We all have the power to help and should not be discarding their needs as if they are invisible,” said Epps. “See them. Acknowledge their anger, exhaustion, and recognize their most basic needs are real.  Once you’ve done this, looking over them and away from them becomes impossible to do.” 

Epps traveled to Puerto Rico on Saturday, Sept. 22 to hand deliver the $50 gift cards to Walmart and Sam’s Club to the victims in affected areas with her father & Puerto Rico resident, Carlos Martir. A total of 100 gift cards were distributed in Punta Diamanté, Ponce and San German, and other surrounding areas in Puerto Rico.  

First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union, donated $1,500.   

“Our thoughts and concerns are with the people of Puerto Rico. We have members and members’ loved ones, who have been tremendously impacted by the recent hurricane, said James Gagliano, chief experience officer at First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union. “We send our collective thoughts, well wishes, and this contribution to help in the relief efforts underway.”   

The O’Pake Institute also donated and contributed to the gift cards as well.    

“One of 51�Թ�’s central missions is to serve the underserved. I can think of no activity that reflects that more than helping our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico, said Dr. Rodney S. Ridley Sr., vice president for research, economic development & entrepreneurship and chief operating officer at the O’Pake Institute. “They have suffered tremendously with all the devastating effects of storms; the island had barely recovered when hurricane Fiona hit causing massive damage. We are so extremely proud and grateful for the efforts that Ms. Liz Epps undertook on behalf of herself and O’Pake; a small, but sincere effort to bring some relief to those in need. We will continue to support this effort and pray that this community will eventually recover.”