August 28, 2007 - After the devastating effects of Hurricane Dean, the local Houston Caribbean community is rallying together to help in the relief efforts of those countries most affected by the storm. Members from the Caribbean Impact Foundation, a local non-profit organization, stood before the International Liaison and Protocol Committee to request the week August 26 th be declared Caribbean Relief Week. Mayor Bill White issued the proclamation asking Houstonians to do what they can to help.
"Houstonians have always shown a big heart in times of need, and I know they will want to help," said Mayor Bill White.
Residents of Belize, Dominica, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and St. Lucia have suffered severe damage to roads, public buildings, homes, hospitals, and agriculture. Council Member M.J. Khan states, "Our thoughts are with the people of the many countries affected by Hurricane Dean. I commend the efforts of the various local organizations and businesses who are coming together to provide aid to our neighbors."
The organizers of the Caribbean Relief effort are asking the Houston community to gather the following items: non-perishable food, water, soap, disinfectant, mosquito repellent, flashlights, batteries, diapers for both seniors and infants, building and school supplies, crates, barrels, and monetary donations to help with the delivery of supplies abroad.
There will be drop-off locations available throughout the Greater Houston area this week. In addition, individuals can drop off donations on Friday, August 31 st through Monday, September 3 rd at 3 p.m. at the following locations: South Park Baptist Church at 5830 Van Fleet, the Shrine of the Black Madonna at 5309 Martin Luther King Blvd., RAPHA Village at 7003 Addicks Clodine, and D&D Auto Salvage at 7403 Decker in Baytown. Monetary donations can be made payable to the Caribbean Impact Foundation at any Chase Bank location or online at www.repairerofthebreach.org.
