Why Puerto Rico donations lag behind fundraising for Harvey, Irma victims

Hurricane Maria has wrecked the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico, causing a near shut-down of the island’s economy and leaving most of its 3.4 million citizens without power and other vital goods and services.

But as contributions soar to homegrown fundraising efforts for victims of Sunday's Las Vegas shooting, those devastated by Maria have seen comparatively small donations especially when compared to money raised for those affected by hurricanes Harvey and Irma, according to groups contacted by USA TODAY.

— The Red Cross reports that it has collected $350 million in donations and pledges so far to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey, which slammed Houston and environs. It has received $45 million for Irma victims, and $9 million for Maria.

— Catholic Charities reports that it has distributed $2 million to its agencies in Texas, $2.4 million in Florida $10,000 in Louisiana and $1.2 million to Puerto Rico/Virgin Islands.

Read more: http://www.gosanangelo.com/story/money/2017/10/04/puerto-rico-donations-lag-behind-fundraising-harvey-irma-victims-vegas-shooting/731955001/