Washington D.C., Nov 6, 2017 / 11:45 am
After Hurricanes Irma and Maria swept through Puerto Rico leaving a trail of disaster, the Catholic University of America announced this week that it will welcome Puerto Rican students who want to continue their undergraduate education free of charge.
"Inspired by the example of Pope Francis and our bishops, we wanted to make a more significant impact by offering our support during the spring semester," John Garvey, President of Catholic University of America, said Nov. 6.
"We believe the best support we can provide is a welcoming community where impacted students can continue their academic pursuits," Garvey continued.
In August, Hurricane Irma caused widespread damage throughout the Caribbean and parts of the U.S., leaving millions in Puerto Rico without power. Only a few weeks later, Hurricane Maria swept through, causing additional major damage in Puerto Rico and across the northeastern Caribbean. Gov. Ricardo Rossello of Puerto Rico called the event a humanitarian crisis.