Members of the Ecuadorian community will join BP Diaz & AM Crespo to help guide concerned constituents who want to help the victims of Saturday’s earthquake in Ecuador
In the wake of the powerful earthquake that recently devastated Ecuador, and the death toll rising to about 600 victims; Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.; New York State Assembly Member Marcos Crespo, New York City Council Member Rafael Salamanca and members of the Ecuadorian community hosted a “Day of Solidarity” press conference and rally to highlight ways the community can help provide aid to Ecuador.
Bronx Borough President Diaz Jr. was also joined by US Congressman Jose E. Serrano; City Councilwoman Vanessa Gibson; State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr.; Assemblyman Michael R. Benedetto; Assemblyman Jose Rivera; Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj; Assemblyman Victor Pichardo; Assemblyman Francisco Moya; Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer; District Leader Yudelka Tapia; District Leader Cynthia Cox; and District Leader Israel Martinez.
The earthquake that shook Ecuador, the worst in nearly seven decades, with a magnitude of 7.8 on the Richter scale, left more than 600 dead, injured 12,492 people, left 130 still remain missing and 25,000 people without shelter, according to the Ecuador’s Risk Management Office.
Ecuador has deployed 10,000 soldiers and 4,600 police officers to the affected areas, with hundreds of rescuers from eight countries having traveled to help with relief efforts. Troops have set up mobile hospitals and temporary shelters but more is needed to help the country rebound from the natural disaster.
The Ecuadoran consulate, which has been directing relief efforts in New York City, and has made a lists of things that are much needed, such as canned foods, baby food, diapers, water, sports drinks like Powerade or Gatorade, large tents, folding beds, batteries, LED lights, flashlights, sleeping bags (sleeping bag), as well as first aid material such as over-the-counter medicines like Tylenol and ibuprofen (please no liquid medications), Band-Aids, and gauzes.
“This powerful earthquake has destroyed many lives, and we must all come together to help those who need most in these most dire of circumstances,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “Ecuadorians are the fourth largest Hispanic group in this city, and many members of this community make their residence in The Bronx. We must come together to help our brothers and sisters in their greatest time of need.”
“The borough of The Bronx would like to send our condolences to the family and friends of those who have lost their lives in the devastating earthquake that impacted the Republic of Ecuador last Saturday,” said Assembly Member Marcos A. Crespo. “The deaths and lives impacted are tragedies with tremendous significance for each and every elected official in The Bronx, most importantly to the Ecuadorian communities we are blessed to represent. I proudly stand in solidarity with Ecuador.”
"On behalf of the Ecuadorian people affected by the earthquake that left hundreds of deaths and thousands of injured and homeless, I want to thank all the expressions of solidarity we have received from our Latin American brothers and sisters, and everybody else who is lending a hand during these painful time,” said General Consul of Ecuador Linda Machuca. “I also want to invite you to continue your financial supporting and donating articles needed at this time. For more information, please visit our emergency website at: www.contigoecuador.ec.”
“I want to thank Chairman Marcos Crespo and Borough President Ruben Diaz for their collective partnership in organizing a Bronx relief effort for the people of Ecuador,” said Council Member Vanessa L. Gibson. “This devastating earthquake has taken the lives of hundreds of people and disrupted thousands of families and communities. It's important for Bronxites to join in the efforts to help families during this time with basic needs and I'm proud to join my Colleagues in bringing supplies to our brothers and sisters in Ecuador. During times of great challenge, we must recognize the importance to help others in need and our Bronx relief effort aims to reach as many families as possible. My continued thoughts and prayers remain with the people of Ecuador during this time.”
"There are no words to describe the pain and devastation in Ecuador. My heart goes out to the families impacted by this tragedy, and I encourage everyone to do their part and contribute whatever way they can to support relief efforts. I'll be joining the Bronx Borough President and Assembly Member Crespo to raise awareness and help relief efforts for Ecuador. New York City stands with the country," said Council Member Ritchie Torres of the Bronx.
“I join my colleagues in New York calling for the international community to stand up and support Ecuador in these critical days following the recent earthquake that resulted in deaths, injuries, and destruction of property,” said Council Member Fernando Cabrera. “I applaud Secretary Kerry for pledging support, and I urge the federal government to immediately provide sufficient funds to ensure that all those impacted by this tragedy receive the services they need. My thoughts and prayers are with the Ecuadorian people as they begin to recover and rebuild.”
You can drop off supplies at the following places:
o ATAX at 1442 Williamsbridge Road (347-903-3900)
o Centro Bronx at 1765 Westchester Avenue (718-684-5095)
o Concilio Iglesia Cristiana at 1996 Clinton Avenue (347-942-3691)
o Radio Tambo Stereo at 815 Gerard Avenue (929-276-4390)
You can also drop off supplies at the Ecuadorian consulate offices throughout New York City.
o In Manhattan: 800 Second Ave, Suite 600
o Long Island City: 24-15 Queens Plaza North
o Agencia en Queens: 67-21 Roosevelt Ave, Woodside
You can also donate money, via the following organizations:
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