Archives of the Mayor's Press Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Wednesday, January 27, 1999

Release #032-99

Contact: Colleen Roche/Samantha I. Lugo (212) 788-2958


MAYOR GIULIANI ASKS NEW YORKERS TO ASSIST VICTIMS OF THE EARTHQUAKE IN COLOMBIA

Fire Houses Open Citywide to Collect Donations

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today appealed to New Yorkers and members of the business community to donate critically needed supplies to assist the victims of the powerful earthquake that killed over 250 people and injured nearly 1,000 in Colombia's coffee region. The Mayor also announced that all New York City firehouses will be open to receive donations for the victims.

"The devastating earthquake that hit Colombia on Monday has left the country in desperate need. I urge all New Yorkers to extend a hand to our brothers and sisters in Colombia and to their families and friends here in New York," Mayor Giuliani said. "Our prayers and thoughts are with all the Colombian community in this difficult moment."

New Yorkers wishing to help in the relief effort can bring bottled water and non-perishable foods to all 222 local firehouses, which have been designated as official drop-off points.

The Mayor was joined by Deputy Mayor Ninfa Segarra, Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen; Jerome Hauer, Director of the Mayor's Office of Emergency Management; New York City Police Department's Deputy Commissioner for Community Affairs Yolanda Jimenez; the Consul General of Colombia in New York, Mauricio SŁarez, and Colombia's Ambassador to the United Nations, Alfonso Valdivieso.

Deputy Mayor Ninfa Segarra said, "Our City and its Colombian community are joined together by our commitment5 to help bring hope and relief to those who have been struck by this terrible earthquake. We will work tirelessly to bring help to the people of Colombia, in the proud tradition of our great City."

Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen said, "As a result of the disaster that has devastated the people of Colombia, the Fire Department and all of its members join the City of New York in its heartfelt concern for the villages and towns affected by the earthquake. Our firehouses have assisted many relief efforts in the past and we are proud to cooperate once again."

The earthquake, which measured 6.0 on the Ritcher scale, destroyed many buildings, cut communications and caused severe landslides. It is the worst earthquake to hit Colombia since 1983.

The Consul General of Colombia in New York has established a bank account with the Commercial Bank of New York to aid victims. Donations can be made at any branch. The account number is 0079004503. The Consulate also has a hot line for inquiries regarding the victims, the number is 212-370-0252.

www.ci.nyc.ny.us


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