NYS Conference of Black Senators offer their support and prayers to the families and friends affected by this terrible natural disaster in Haiti

Members of the NYS Conference of Black Senators sent messages of prayers and support today, to families and friends that have been affected by the tragic earthquake that took place south of Port-Au Prince, Haiti yesterday. “The Haitian community is a very vibrant and important part of our districts and we will do everything possible to aid them during this painful time”, Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson of the 36th District (Westchester and Bronx), Chairwoman of the NYS Conference of Black Senators (CBS).

Senator Malcolm Smith, President Pro-Temp, 14th District (Queens, NY) stated, “The devastation that our beloved friends in Haiti face is almost unimaginable, but the managing of it, the response if you will, is the most critical and essential element at this juncture. That’s why I will be working closely with Governor Paterson, the American Red Cross in Greater New York and also holding a fund drive in my district, as we all come together as one in this time of need and humanity.”

Senator John Sampson, Democrat Majority Conference Leader (Brooklyn, NY) stated, “I am deeply saddened by the tremendous loss of human life and the thousands who were injured in Haiti. I offer my prayers and condolences to those who lost family and friends, and to the Haitian community in New York at this very difficult time. My office is following developments in Haiti closely so we can respond in an effective and efficient manner to help the people of Haiti in every way possible. I urge all New Yorkers to come together and contribute financially to relief efforts.”

Senator Eric Adams of the 20th District (Brooklyn, NY) stated, “It is in time of tragedy that the nobility and generosity of the human spirit can truly shine through. I know that New Yorkers from all backgrounds will join me in supporting and assisting the many people affected by this devastation.”

Senator Shirley L. Huntley of the 10th District (Queens, NY) stated, “The citizens of Port-au-Prince and surrounding towns need a wealth of help and compassion from everyone in the international community. We all must play a role in lending a helping hand to those who need it most. In the darkness that many have encountered, know that there is light and help arriving. It is when adversity rises, do we truly know the extent of our inner strength and compassion. I hope that those residing in my district, throughout America, and in Haiti searching for loved ones, know that our prayers and condolences will continually be with them.”

Senator Kevin Parker of the 21st District (Brooklyn, NY) stated, “I am profoundly saddened by the news of the devastating earthquake that struck just off Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital. My thoughts and prayers are extended to the many families in and around my district who have relatives and loved ones in Haiti, as they struggle to cope with this terrible natural tragedy that has taken its toll on lives lost and property destroyed. In this tragic time for Haiti’s people, we, as legislators, have a clear responsibility to help ensure the free and rapid delivery of humanitarian aid to the people who need it most. We must act now, before this crisis worsens. As New Yorkers, we understand the importance of acting decisively against the worst effects of any disaster. We must use our full arsenal of tools to reach out and assist our ailing neighbors and friends. ”

Senator Andrea Stewart- Cousins of the 35th District (Westchester, NY) stated, “It is with profound sadness that we are all observing the devastation in Haiti. Words are inadequate in the face of this great tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with all those touched by this disaster, and I pledge whatever assistance my office can provide to give relief and comfort to all of the impacted families”.

Senator Bill Perkins of the 30th District (Harlem, NY) stated, “The devastation and the aftermath that has hit the country of Haiti not only affect me on an elected official level but on a personal level as well. My office will be reaching out to the Haitian community to provide assistance with relief efforts and we have begun working with New York City Council Member Matthew Eugene (Brooklyn) on sending Medical Supplies to the country. My family and many families have been affected by this tragedy and we will what we can to help.”

Senator Velmanette Montgomery of the 18th District (Brooklyn, NY) stated, “As Chairwoman of the Children and Families Committee, my heart goes out to the people of Haiti, who are living in mayhem and fear in the wake of the magnitude-7 earthquake that has caused colossal devastation to this country. I represent many people whose families are impacted by this horrific event. I support the relief efforts now underway in my Senate District and elsewhere in the State to bring relief to the Haitian people”.

Senator Antoine M. Thompson of the 60th District (Buffalo, NY) stated "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the citizens of Haiti and all of the families with loved ones affected by this devastating earthquake. As with every natural disaster a tremendous amount of hope, faith and courage will be needed for this country to recover and rebuild. I trust that in whatever manner possible we as a country and state will assist and support these efforts in whatever manner possible,"

Relief efforts have begun and the NYS Conference of Black Senators will continue to post on our Website information on how to get help or send relief. Anyone looking to reach relatives in Haiti can call the State Department at 1-888-407-4747.