Community is one of the best parts of life North of NYC.
Especially during challenging times, our communities come together like no other. Because we are North of NYC strong.
In the wake of Hurricane Ida and the devastation experienced by many in our communities, our neighbors, friends, families and local businesses need our help. Here are just some ways we can help those affected by Hurricane Ida in our communities North of NYC.
Support the Sound Shore
New York’s Sound Shore were among the hardest hit by Hurricane Ida. Help support the Sound Shore by donating to any of the below organizations directly benefiting our neighbors, family and friends.
Community Resource Center: Community Resource Center (CRC) was founded in 1998 to promote the cultural, economic, educational and professional integration of immigrants to the already established larger community and to advocate for those in need. We aim to provide the tools to prepare new immigrant families to become self-sufficient and active members of the community. Click here to donate to the Community Resource Center.
The Fuller Center: The Fuller Center for Housing is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that seeks to eradicate poverty housing by promoting partnerships with individuals and community groups to build and rehabilitate homes for people in need. The Fuller Center assists with natural disaster recovery and rebuilding and is already supporting those impacted by Hurricane Ida. Click here to donate to The Fuller Center.
Mamaroneck Chamber Hurricane Ida Relief Fund is raising funds for the Mamaroneck business community critically impacted by Hurricane Ida, which destroyed merchandise, equipment and the property in general. Click here to donate to the Mamaroneck Chamber Hurricane Ida Relief Fund.
Larchmont Mamaroneck Hunger Task Force is an volunteer organization of concerned citizens dedicated to assisting local families who need food. Their food pantry distributes groceries to residents of Larchmont and Mamaroneck. Click here to donate to the Larchmont Mamaroneck Hunger Task Force.
Bread of Life Giving Tree Global: Donate shelf-stable food or funds to this organization based in Rye, NY as they help feed over 10,000 people weekly in Westchester County. Click here to donate to the Bread of Life.
Rye Relief is a group of local Rye community members coordinating with state and local officials to help neighbors in any way they need. Please email RyeRelief@gmail.com if you have manpower to offer; need items or have things to donate (most needed are fans, dehumidifiers, small appliances, black trash bags); or need help with finding rentals or have a rental to offer.
The Sharing Shelf in Port Chester was founded to address clothing insecurity and meet the basic material needs of low-income children and teens in Westchester County. Click here to donate to The Sharing Shelf.
Support the Responders
The American Red Cross is responding to the communities hardest hit by the storm. You can support their efforts by making a financial donation or volunteering your time. To donate to the Red Cross, click here. To volunteer with the Red Cross, click here.
Shop Local
Many local shops and restaurants have suffered devastating setbacks due to flood damage, on top of the COVID-19 related challenges they already face. Continue to shop local to support the businesses in your community and help them rebuild. Check in with your favorite local shops, many of which are holding sidewalk sales to liquidate lightly damaged goods at a discount. You can also continue supporting your favorite shops through their e-commerce sites. Whether dining in or carrying out, continue supporting local restaurants. Purchasing gift cards is another great way to show your support!
Feed Those in Need
Regional food banks need financial donations to help restock their shelves, particularly with pre-packaged items that can be easily distributed to those in need. You can help by texting the word FOOD to 707070, where you will receive a mobile-friendly, Apple Pay-compatible link to donate to our local food banks. For more information and to donate, visit:
Fairfield County: Connecticut Food Bank
Westchester County: Feeding Westchester
Putnam & Dutchess Counties: Food Bank of the Hudson Valley
Support Your Neighbors
Make sure to check in with your neighbors and lend a helping hand where you can. From simply offering to help clean up debris, or offering to purchase groceries or other necessities for neighbors in need, every little bit helps.
Portions of this article originally appeared on NBC New York.