In a recent meeting held by the Departamento de Estado Puerto Rico, officials discussed the ongoing challenges faced by families still living under blue tarps, a situation that has persisted since Hurricane María struck the island over seven years ago. The meeting highlighted the difficulties in accurately identifying the number of families affected and the status of their housing situations.

Officials acknowledged that while they have made efforts to assist families through various programs, there remains uncertainty about the exact number of households still living under blue tarps. An inventory conducted revealed approximately 3,000 homes identified with blue tarps, but officials admitted that they could not confirm how many of those homes are currently occupied or if families are still living in them. Of those identified, nearly 1,940 families have entered assistance programs, but the officials could not provide a clear count of families still in need.

The discussion also touched on the eligibility criteria for assistance, emphasizing that only homeowners or those with a vested interest in the property qualify for aid. This has left some renters and other vulnerable groups without support, leading to concerns about families who may not be accounted for in the official programs.

In addition to housing issues, the meeting addressed the financial aspects of recovery efforts. Officials reported that approximately $20.4 billion has been allocated for recovery, with about $3.4 billion already disbursed. However, there was confusion regarding what "disbursed" means, as it can refer to funds being made available rather than completed projects. This distinction is crucial for understanding the actual progress of recovery efforts.

The meeting concluded with a call for more precise data on the number of families still living under blue tarps, particularly focusing on the number of minors in these situations. Officials committed to providing this information to ensure that the needs of the community are adequately addressed.

As Puerto Rico continues to navigate the long-term impacts of Hurricane María, the discussions from this meeting underscore the ongoing need for targeted support and clear communication regarding recovery efforts. The community remains hopeful for more effective solutions to ensure that no family is left living in inadequate conditions.