The island of Puerto Rico was without electricity, running water and supplies since suffering a direct hit from Hurricane Maria on Sept. 20. Puerto Rico Exchange associates worked hard to make life better for customers and residents of the island, although they too were suffering.
Family Serving Family is a core value that truly epitomizes the Exchange organization and associates.
– Senior Enlisted Advisor CMSgt Reyes
First hit by Hurricane Irma Sept. 6, then Maria a few weeks later, Puerto Rico Exchange associates’ resolve to serve those who serve never dampened. Even though power was out and roads impassable, associates still found ways to serve in any capacity.
Help in Virgin Islands
In recent weeks, associates have flown on Marine Ospreys to the Virgin Islands to support troops in recovery efforts. These associates are following their hearts and Exchange value of Family Serving Family as they serve others.
Another example of Family Serving Family comes from Senior Enlisted Advisor CMSgt Luis Reyes. His grandparents live on the island and were without electricity and living on rationed food.
“My grandparents were in need of supplies. Hurricane Maria wreaked havoc across Puerto Rico, leaving it in total disarray. Power was yet to be restored in many parts of the island, roads were impassable, food was rationed and price gouging was common,” Reyes said.
Transportation Officer CPT Lucia Tartt introduced Reyes to Carlos Rios, operations analyst supervisor, who works at the Dan Daniels Distribution Center, but was in Puerto Rico helping the recovery mission. Rios put Reyes in contact with the General Manager Nick Nguyen, who helped Reyes purchase a generator for his grandparents. Rios also brought food items, but the help didn’t stop there.
‘Like angels from above’
Chief Reyes’ elderly grandparents could not handle the 250-pound generator, so Rios enlisted the help of Exchange Associates Angel Rivers and Jose Pereira. They coordinated the delivery of the generator and supplies on their own time and with their own resources.
“My grandparents live about 45 minutes away, and trust me when I tell you these gentlemen were like angels that came from above,” Reyes said. “My grandparents were ecstatic to see them and we truly grateful for their help.
“Family Serving Family is a core value that truly epitomizes the Exchange organization and associates.”
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