September 22, 2017
NEW YORK—Mayor de Blasio announced 24 firehouses and EMS stations across the five boroughs where New Yorkers can donate critically-needed items for Hurricane Maria relief.
"New York City stands in solidarity with those affected by Hurricane Maria, and many of us are looking for ways to help. We're encouraging New Yorkers to donate these critically-needed items at a local drop-off site," said Mayor Bill de Blasio.
"Donations of necessities – such as baby food, feminine hygiene products, and first aid supplies – are of utmost importance after any natural disaster, and can help relieve the burden on residents and families who are struggling after the impact of the recent storm," said Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito. "I strongly encourage New Yorkers to donate at their nearest participating firehouse or EMS station, or volunteer in whichever capacity possible. New Yorkers have always helped out our neighbors in times of need, and in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, we stand ready to provide assistance to Puerto Rico."
The City encourages donation of items that are critically needed for recovery. These items will be delivered to families directly affected by the storm. Below is a list of items New York City is collecting to send to those affected by Hurricane Maria:
Please note the City is only collecting the items listed above. All donated items must be non-perishable, not second-hand, nor contain any liquids of any kind. Open or unsealed donations of food or hygiene supplies will not be accepted. Wet wipes will also not be accepted. Any other items will be kindly returned.
There are 24 drop off locations accepting donations across all five boroughs. Donations will be accepted during the hours of 7 am through 9 pm. Please be aware that FDNY members at these locations may not be present during drop-off hours if they are responding to an emergency.
"Puerto Rico needs our immediate assistance. I urge everyone to do what they can to support relief efforts, and I am grateful to Mayor de Blasio for opening up these drop-off sites to make it easier for New Yorkers to give close to home," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.
"This is a critical time of life and death for millions throughout the Caribbean," said U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat. "The efforts to rebuild will be great and we each have a role to play to help these families recover following the aftermath of these catastrophic storms. I am encouraged by the solidarity of New Yorkers in times of need, and I implore all residents to donate what they can – nothing is too great or too small – when so much is on the line for our brothers and sisters in the wake of these recent storms."
"New Yorkers have deep personal ties to Puerto Rico. For many of us, Puerto Ricans are family, both literally and figuratively. New Yorkers take care of one another and that spirit extends to this current catastrophe in Puerto Rico and other Hurricane-impacted areas. I encourage all those interested in helping to avail themselves of these local drop-off sites. I commend the Mayor for getting these resources in place so quickly," said U.S. Representative Nydia M. Velázquez.
"As a the Representative of an area hit particularly hard by Superstorm Sandy, I know the importance of supporting communities hard hit by natural disasters," said U.S. Representative Carolyn Maloney. "I am incredibly proud of our city for coming together in this difficult time to support our fellow Americans. Thank you to Mayor de Blasio for making it easier for all of us to help out how we can."
"Hurricane Maria has devastated Puerto Rico, and our fellow Americans on the island need our help," said U.S. Representative Grace Meng. "If you are able, please consider donating these critically needed items necessary for recovery. I thank the Mayor for organizing this relief effort, and particularly for including feminine hygiene products among the list of items to donate. These products are often overlooked during disaster relief efforts, but they are essential to maintaining women's health and dignity in times of crisis."
State Senator Diane Savino said, "New Yorkers know firsthand the hardships that can come from natural disasters -- and they particularly know the importance of coming together to help their neighbors in need. I encourage those who have the means to donate items to a nearby drop off center and take the opportunity to help those during this extremely difficult time."
"New Yorkers are opening their hearts to help the people of Puerto Rico recover from the devastation of the recent Hurricanes. Two Fire Department locations in Sunset Park are accepting donations of the items most needed in the disaster areas. Whether you connect with a local service organization, a large charity, or bring goods to a fire house, please give generously. We must respond together immediately and then sustain our support for Puerto Rico for as long as recovery efforts continue," said Council Member Carlos Menchaca.
"As the resilient island of Puerto Rico begins the rebuilding process, we must band together in a unified effort to provide emergency relief. I am particularly proud of our first responders who remain committed to not only serving New Yorkers but all of those in need. Going forward I will be working jointly with FDNY Engine 64, Ladder 47 to collect essential goods for the victims of this natural disaster," said Council Member Annabel Palma.
"Our Puerto Rican friends and family need help right now, and this is an easy way for all of us to chip in," said Council Member Rafael Salamanca, Jr. "Join Mayor de Blasio and me by dropping off the items listed at our local EMS facilities."
"As a Puerto Rican, the images from Hurricane Maria are heartbreaking. I encourage all New Yorkers to unite and do what they can to help our friends and family members as they work to rebuild. Many thanks to Mayor de Blasio for organizing these efforts to help." said State Senator Jose M. Serrano.
"I encourage the community to come out in this crucial moment to support, in any way they can, the victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico," said Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez. "Together we will see this through and contribute to the recovery efforts on the island."
After the destruction that Hurricane Maria brought to Puerto Rico, we are wasting no time in getting much needed help over to our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters. I strongly encourage New Yorkers to bring their donations of critically-needed items to their nearest firehouse station. Please remember that no donation is too small," said Council Member Julissa Ferraras-Copeland.
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