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Rocky River native living in Puerto Rico grateful for President Biden's visit after Hurricane Fiona

"I think it gave us all hope in a way we haven't had from the federal government."

CLEVELAND — President Joe Biden made a stop in Puerto Rico on Monday to survey the damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona. 

The storms from Fiona left more than 30 inches of rain around the island. Tens of thousands of people are without power two weeks after the storm hit. 

"Today I am announcing more than $60 million dollars in funding to help coastal areas in Puerto Rico become better prepared for the storm," the president said during his remarks.

Elaine Cosby has been living in Puerto Rico for 16 years. She is originally from Rocky River

"I think it gave us all hope in a way we haven't had from the federal government," she said of Biden's announcement.

Cosby says while Maria was worse than Fiona, the rain from Fiona destroyed what Maria didn't  She owns Horses of Hope, where therapy is provided for the disabled.  

And while the farm has minimal damage, Cosby says movement in and around her area is "horrible." 

"There are so many roads, roads that travel up and down and they're blocked and you can't get to your neighbor's house," she adds.

And what the neighbors still need is power, food and water.

During the visit to Puerto Rico, First Lady Jill Biden packed bags, took photos and greeted volunteers and community leaders for nearly an hour while visiting the food bank.

Meanwhile, President Biden made this pledge: "We came here in person to show that we are with you, all of America is with you as you receive and recover and rebuild."

Elaine welcomes all the help and adds that while Puerto Ricans are struggling, extending a helping hand is their culture. "There are crews from Puerto Rico that are going to Florida to help because that is in our nature," she says.

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