The city is holding a fundraising drive for the victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Mayor Edward M. O’Brien announced Monday.
To aid the hurricane relief effort, O’Brien said the city has established a GoFundMe page that will send people’s donations directly to UNICEF, an international organization focused on supporting the needs of children in disaster-stricken areas.
“Our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands desperately need our help,” O’Brien said. “As lives have been lost and homes have been destroyed, our community is answering the call by coming together during this tragic time to assist those in crisis.”
The city is working with the Latino Haven Committee of West Haven, the University of New Haven Mayor’s Advisory Commission, and the West Haven Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club to drum up support for the hurricane benefit.
“This is a real joint effort between the city and these local organizations,” O’Brien said. “Their support, networks and resources are vital to making sure we raise as much money as possible and have the greatest impact we can have for those in need.”
O’Brien pointed out that while the city is focusing on accepting monetary donations, it is also partnering with West Haven’s three fire departments to collect nonperishable items for the hurricane victims.
O’Brien said people can drop off the food at any of the city’s fire stations or City Hall, 355 Main St.
They can also drop off cash or check donations in the mayor’s office on the third floor of City Hall. Cash donors will receive a receipt, O’Brien said.
To make an online credit card donation, go to the city’s GoFundMe page at https://www.gofundme.com/westhaven.
“UNICEF is a great organization that knows exactly what they need to help the children of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands,” O’Brien said. “They are on the ground and know what items they need, and we want to help them purchase those items.