St. Louis Community Rallies To Support Puerto Rico Arson Victims

St. Louis Community Rallies To Support Puerto Rico Arson Victims

In a heartfelt display of solidarity, the St. Louis community has come together to support Puerto Rican businesses devastated by a recent arson attack.

The Puerto Rican Society, Inc. of St. Louis, in collaboration with Alderwoman Daniela Velazquez (Ward 6), organized a successful fundraiser to aid the recovery efforts.

Background of the Incident

In December 2024, during the festive holiday season, multiple businesses in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, were set ablaze.

The alleged perpetrator, Danielle Bertothy, a 36-year-old woman from St. Peters, Missouri, was vacationing on the island at the time.

The incident shocked both the local and international communities, especially given its occurrence during a period when Puerto Rico’s holiday celebrations are in full swing.

The Fundraising Event

On a recent Sunday afternoon, supporters gathered at Salsa Rosado, a local venue, to raise funds for the affected businesses, notably Luichy’s Seaside Hotel.

The event was spearheaded by the Puerto Rican Society, Inc. of St. Louis, with significant involvement from Alderwoman Velazquez.

Alderwoman Velazquez expressed her dismay, stating, “We’re very just upset that this would happen during the holiday season in the heart of Christmas season, which, on the island, lasts until mid-January, that someone would be so brazen to set these businesses on fire and then just leave and not be held accountable.”

Community Support and Generosity

The fundraiser saw an overwhelming turnout, reflecting the strong ties between the St. Louis community and Puerto Rico.

Hector Vega, a parliamentarian and board member of the Puerto Rican Society, emphasized this connection: “A lot of people in Puerto Rico and the island, they think we’ve forgotten about them, but we haven’t. We are still connected with our roots down there. We still have our family.”

In a remarkable act of generosity, an anonymous donor pledged to match all donations from the event up to $10,000.

As of Sunday afternoon, the fundraiser had amassed $6,300, bringing the potential total to $12,600 with the matching contribution.

DetailInformation
Event VenueSalsa Rosado
BeneficiaryLuichy’s Seaside Hotel and other affected businesses
Key OrganizersPuerto Rican Society, Inc. of St. Louis; Alderwoman Daniela Velazquez (Ward 6)
Anonymous Donor PledgeUp to $10,000 matching donations
Funds Raised (as of Sunday)$6,300

Looking Ahead

Both the Mayor of Cabo Rojo and the owner of Luichy’s Seaside Hotel have extended their gratitude to the Puerto Rican Society for their unwavering support.

The funds raised will play a crucial role in rebuilding the affected businesses and restoring the livelihoods of those impacted by the tragedy.

The St. Louis community’s response to the arson attack in Puerto Rico underscores the enduring bonds between the two regions.

Through collective efforts and heartfelt generosity, they have demonstrated that even in the face of adversity, unity and compassion can pave the way for recovery and hope.

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