New York State Sends Donations To Tropical Storm Victims In The Dominican Republic

Storm Victims will Receive Clothing, Food from New Yorkers

November 23, 2007 -- New York Governor Eliot Spitzer today announced that much-needed aid in the form of clothing, furniture, and canned goods from generous New Yorkers has been sent to survivors of Tropical Storm Noel in the Dominican Republic.

The goods, which were collected by National Guard soldiers at the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx, are enough to fill eight 20-foot-long shipping containers.

"The people of New York are always willing to help those in need," said Governor Spitzer. "Our hearts and prayers go out to the people of the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Mexico who have suffered the devastating effects of Tropical Storm Noel. We hope these items will help ease their burdens and allow them to look forward to better days ahead."

In all, the almost 19 tons of donated goods include 515 boxes of men's clothing, 135 boxes of men's shoes, 450 boxes of women's clothing, 120 boxes of women's shoes, 425 boxes of children's clothing, 145 boxes of children's shoes, 310 boxes of canned goods, 900 cases of water, and furniture items.

The shipping containers will travel to the Dominican Republic via Maersk Lines from the Port of Elizabeth, New Jersey. They will be received and distributed by the Dominican Republic's First Lady Dr. Margarita Cedeño de Fernández.

Lieutenant Governor Paterson said: "At this time of year, we are reminded of the need not only to give thanks but to be generous to those in need. When Hurricane Noel struck the Carribean, Governor Spitzer responded and ordered the National Guard to deliver helicopters so that rescue workers in the Dominican Republic could reach those in greatest need. Now we are sending more aid, representing the collective generosity of so many New Yorkers who are working together to help the people of the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Mexico rebuild their lives and their communities."

Senator Eric Schneiderman said: "On behalf of the thousands of Dominicans that live in my district, I want to thank Governor Eliot Spitzer for assisting the families affected by Tropical Storm Noel. As the Chief Executive of the State of New York, he has shown tremendous leadership in responding to the storm’s devastation, which has impacted millions of people in the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Mexico."

Assemblyman Jose Rivera said: "I thank the Governor. He is always taking bold steps to help those greatest in need. This is just another example.”

Assemblyman Adriano Espaillat said: "I thank the Governor for acknowledging the need and providing a solution. His quick action will make a difference. I've been humbled by the overwhelming outpouring of support from individuals across New York. This truly reflects the One New York. This spirit of generosity should carry on."

Assemblyman Jose R. Peralta said: "I applaud Governor Spitzer's immediate response in helping our brothers and sisters in the Dominican Republic. The items collected will go a long way in improving the victims' quality of life. As we celebrate Thanksgiving and give thanks for all we have, we should also remember all those who are in need of help, and this is one way of doing just that."

Assemblyman Peter Rivera said: "This is a time to give thanks, as well as a time to remember those less fortunate, not only by our words but also by our acts. I join the Governor in celebrating the season and showing that New York is truly a great and generous State."

Councilmember Joel Rivera said: "We applaud the Governor for his services to the Dominican community. As we all know, there is a very large Dominican community that resides in New York and anything that happens to their relatives back home also affects them."

Governor Spitzer was instrumental in facilitating the delivery of goods that were collected as a result of the outpouring of support from communities and institutions of New York, as well as from the government of the Dominican Republic. Private individuals and organizations who were involved include Damian Rodriguez from First Class Limousine, CUNY, Hostos Community College, Hispanic Federation, National Supermarkets Association, and Union Telecard Alliance (Vitarroz).

Source: New York Governor

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