New York City businesses and community members are conducting donation drives across all five boroughs to support Venezuela following an earthquake earlier this week. Organizers have already collected over 250 bags of supplies, including bottled water and baby food, with the first shipments expected to be sent overseas early next week.
What supplies are being collected for Venezuela?
Organizers are prioritizing essential items that can be easily shipped. According to the organizers, the most needed supplies include bottled water, baby food, and non-perishable items like canned goods.
Felipe Rodriguez, the evening manager at Key Food Fresh in Castle Hill, noted that other helpful items include wipes and paper plates. The store has joined a growing list of local businesses rallying to support the effort.
How are New Yorkers participating in the relief effort?
David Brito, a morning manager at Key Food Fresh, has been traveling across New York City to collect donations. Brito said the disaster became personal after receiving a call from his mother, who experienced the earthquake in real time.
While Brito’s own family is safe, he noted the widespread suffering in the country. “There’s a lot of people suffering and missing right now,” Brito said.
“We love our country. We love our people. We love our people and we’re always trying to help each other,” Brito said.
Where are the Bronx drop-off locations?
Residents looking to contribute can visit several locations. In addition to Key Food Fresh in Castle Hill, there are Bronx drop-off points at Food Fair Fresh Markets.
These additional locations are situated on Jerome Avenue and 163rd Street. The collected items are being prepared for transport, and the first shipments are expected to depart early next week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items are most needed for the donation drives?
Organizers say the most needed supplies are bottled water, baby food, and non-perishable canned goods. Wipes and paper plates are also highly encouraged.
Where can I drop off donations in the Bronx?
Donations can be dropped off at Food Fair Fresh Markets on Jerome Avenue and on 163rd Street.
When will the donations be sent to Venezuela?
The first shipments of collected donations are expected to be sent overseas early next week.
How can local communities best support international relief efforts during natural disasters?
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