Another update from City Councilmember Brad Lander, who writes:
“I continue to be amazed by this community’s response to Hurricane Sandy and its aftermath. Every call for volunteers, donation, and help has been filled many times over. And we have remained good neighbors, despite this very stressful and ongoing event.
“I would like to highlight the amazing work of the people who are managing the two evacuee shelters in our district. ERIN and ZAIDA at the Park Slope Armory and BETTY, FLORENCE AND TORI at John Jay High School have been strong, dedicated, calm, and organized through a difficult situation. The 700+ people living in these shelters, and our whole community, owe them a big thank you.
“See below for opportunities this weekend to help continue the clean up and support those affected this weekend.
“Volunteer and Donation Needs this Weekend
“The Park Slope Armory shelter (361 15th Street, between 7th & 8th Avenues) needs volunteers who can work at least an 8 hour shift, longer would be great. Shifts start at 8 AM and 8 PM. If they have too many volunteers, you may be turned away, so be prepared for that.
“The John Jay High School shelter (237 7th Avenue, between 4th & 5th Streets) needs day, evening, and overnight volunteers this weekend (especially, but not only, people with medical training). You need to be able to dedicate at least 6-8 hours and cannot bring your children.
“There is still a huge need for your help in Red Hook (and thank you to everyone who has already volunteered). Here are several opportunities over the weekend:
“I am very happy to report that the Office of Emergency Management has set up an office in Red Hook at 402 Van Brunt Street. At 10 AM on Saturday, they are looking for 100 volunteers to assist with cleanup efforts. Please bring tools, work gloves, and be prepared to get a little dirty.
“Added Value, the Red Hook community farm (480 Columbia Street, across the street from IKEA) sustained extensive damage during the storm. About 100 volunteers will be working throughout the morning and will need a hot lunch.
“They are asking any kind souls to bring hot, cooked food to the farm at 1 PM on Saturday. Also, their computers were destroyed by Sandy and the farm would really appreciate a donation of an old computer or smart phone.
“Red Hook Initiative has been doing amazing work this week on behalf of this community in need. They would still appreciate volunteers (at 767 Hicks Street) and donations of flashlights, ice, and medical supplies (but no clothes). Call 718-858-6782 for details.”