Contact: Sunny Mindel/Brenda Pérez (212) 788-2958
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today encouraged all New Yorkers to support the relief effort for the victims of flood and mudslides in Venezuela. After seven days of continuous torrential rains, reports from the Venezuelan Consulate estimate 10,000 people missing, 6,000 injured and 150,000 homeless.
Joining the Mayor were: Deputy Mayor Ninfa Segarra; Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen; Police Commissioner Howard Safir; Consul General of Venezuela Pedro Segundo Conde-Regardiz; Ambassador Carlos Bivero; President of the Hispanic Federation, Lorraine Cortés Vásquez; Vice Chancellor for University relations at CUNY, Jay Hershenson; and members of the Hispanic Society/NYPD.
"Traditionally, New Yorkers have shown tremendous solidarity with those in need," the Mayor said. "The people of Venezuela need all the help that we can provide during this painful time. As we find ourselves celebrating the holiday season, let's share some of our good fortune with those who have lost their loved ones, their homes and, in many instances, their hopes.
"Beginning immediately, all New York City Firehouses throughout the five boroughs as well as all Police Precincts have opened their doors to serve as drop-off locations for items greatly needed in Venezuela," the Mayor continued. "According to Venezuelan authorities those items include: non-perishable food, baby formula, surgical equipment, blankets, clothing, water, disposable diapers, candles and soap.
"I thank the New York City Fire Department, the Police Department, the Office of Emergency Management, the Hispanic Federation and all those who are coordinating this humanitarian effort. I also thank all New Yorkers in advance for their assistance to the Venezuelan people," the Mayor concluded.
Deputy Mayor Segarra said, "The people of Venezuela need the support of all New Yorkers during this critical time. They have endured a substantial loss and we need to join together to help our Venezuelan brothers and sisters."
The Hispanic Federation has started to coordinate a disaster relief effort for the victims. The bank account "Ayuda al Pueblo Venezolano," (Aid to the Venezuelan People), has been opened at Banco Popular, with the account number 0909000000608.
Those who wish to provide assistance through the American Red Cross should call: 800 HELP NOW (435-7669) or, in Spanish, 800 257-7575.
For further information, please contact Sylvia Castañeda, from Deputy Mayor Segarra's Office, at: (212) 788-6705.