Since the hurricanes swept through Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, FPPOA has received several emails and calls asking if we would be collecting funds to support our offices on those islands. Historically, the Association has voted to not collect funds for such events, and the board has recently decided the same again. The reasons for this include: choosing for which unfortunate disasters or events to have a collection and the uncertain method to distribute money collected. After researching such collections, we look to protect the Association, as well as districts and officers from unintended consequences, such as accounting issues, audits, tax obligations, and charitable gift restrictions.
However, FPPOA has and will continue to guide and refer its members wishing to donate to legitimate sites, go fund me pages, etc. For those effected in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, we are attaching the recent email from PPSO Chief Matt Rowland on how to provide assistance. FPPOA will also be spearheading these collections across the country with the assistance of its board members and district representatives. In addition, we have also discussed with Chief Rowland the possibility of temporary duty assignments for officers in both areas to assist with cleanup, and the possibility of leave donations to staff in those offices who may need that form of assistance.
We are also attaching in the following line a link to the Federal Court Clerk's Association, who is collecting funds for all of those districts recently effected by the hurricanes.
http://www.fcca.ws
In recent conversations with officers effected by these events, it appears the need for assistance is great in many ways. The Board of FPPOA of course sends our thoughts and prayers to those struggling through this difficult time.
Message #183 from PPSO
Aid to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands (Action): Many of the people in the districts of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are still struggling to secure basic necessities. There are limits to what the judiciary is allowed to do with appropriated funds, and collection/disbursement of cash donations specific to probation personnel is proving more complicated than we would like. The Federal Probation and Pretrial Services Association is contacting other associations to explore options for long-term assistance, but if you and your staff would like to help now with personal funds, please see the list of needed items below and addresses for the districts.
- Water filters
- Batteries - AA/AAA/D
- First aid supplies
- Portable cell phone chargers
- Diapers
- Baby food/formula
- Flashlights
- Generators
- Lanterns
- Solar-powered lanterns
- Bottled water
- Baby wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Dry foods for humans and pets
- Mosquito repellent
- Toilet paper/paper towels
- Hygiene products
- Portable toilets
- Amazon gift cards
When shipping items to the District of Puerto Rico, please use the following address:
c/o Mr. Eustaquio Babilonia
Chief Probation Officer
United States District Court
Federico Degetau Federal Building
150 Carlos Chardon Avenue, Room 400
San Juan, PR 00918-1703
When sending items to the Virgin Islands, please divide the shipment and send to:
c/o Chief Larry Glenn:
United States Probation Office
Almeric L. Christian Federal Building
3013 Estate Golden Rock, Suite 2
St. Croix, VI 00820
United States Probation Office
Ron de Lugo Federal Building
5500 Veterans Drive, Suite 335
St. Thomas, VI 00802-6424