Springfield is dealing with an influx of families from Puerto Rico who are seeking refuge after the devastation of Hurricane Maria.
Officials with the New North Citizens Council, which has been designated at a welcome center for evacuees from the U.S. territory, says New York, Orlando and Springfield are the top three destinations, and that 65 families have moved in locally over the last three weeks.
Springfield Schools Superintendent Daniel Warwick says with the district having received about a hundred students, the state will be petitioned for emergency help with various services.
In addition, job centers in Holyoke and Springfield are working on a database for employers that will hire Spanish speakers.