Oswego County Students Join Central, Northern New Yorkers to Help Hurricane Sandy Victims

Items Collected Through Sen. Ritchie’s Donation Drive

 Fill Van Bound for Hard-Hit Long Island

Students at Michael A. Maroun Elementary School in Phoenix helped to fill a van Monday morning with items collected for victims of Hurricane Sandy; adding to the donations made throughout the past month by Central and Northern New Yorkers taking part in State Senator Patty Ritchie’s drive to help those affected by the storm.

Lisa Balles’ Pre-K class filled more than 25 boxes with canned food, toiletries, blankets and other necessities to be delivered to people on Long Island who are still recovering from October’s devastating storm.

“This sort of response—especially from people this young—is extremely overwhelming,” said Senator Patty Ritchie.  “I’m so grateful that the students at Maroun Elementary took action to help the victims of Hurricane Sandy.”

“There’s still a very long road to recovery ahead for the people downstate who are trying to rebuild their homes and businesses.  I’m thankful that these students, and many other Central and Northern New Yorkers joined with me to come to the aid of those affected.”

For about a month, Senator Ritchie has been collecting donations at her Oswego, Jefferson and St. Lawrence County offices; and has partnered with Senator John Flanagan—who represents part of Long Island—to give donations to Island Harvest, one of the affected region’s largest hunger relief organizations.

“On behalf of all Long Islanders, I want to thank everyone who got involved to help those who have been affected by Hurricane Sandy,” said Senator Flanagan.

“Senator Ritchie and her staff deserve a great deal of credit for organizing this donation drive and for taking the time to let those who are still rebuilding their lives know that there are people throughout our great state who are ready to help.”

Those still interested in helping victims of Hurricane Sandy can do so by contacting Island Harvest at 631-873-4775.  Senator Ritchie also recommends donating to help with the American Red Cross’ relief efforts.  To make a donation, click here or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. 

(Senator Ritchie is pictured in the above photo presenting students with a Certificate of Recognition for “Selflessness and Community Spirit.”Pictured with Senator Ritchie from left to right are Pre-K teacher Lisa Balles, Assistant Principal Diane Galster, Pre-K students and Principal Mary Stanton)