“This development is very unusual, and it is an external development, not an internal development,” he added.
According to Reyes, “The CNMI has been very fortunate for so many years in not having a homeless problem, because the people here have strong cultural family values and a strong sense of community.”
He added, “As you can see, the Red Cross and the Salvation Army have helped. And members of our community have helped. Now that this development has received widespread media and public attention, I am sure more people in our community and within our private business sector would be willing to help, including our many churches.”
Asked how the CNMI government will address the problems of the family from Illinois, Reyes said the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs can provide assistance through its nutrition program while the Northern Marianas Housing Corp. may provide the family temporary shelter.
“We also hope that the sisters will reconcile and take care of each other,” Reyes said.
Richard Johnson, Amy Gregg and their two young children are seeking help so they can go back to the mainland.
For donations, call Karidat at 234-6981.
