Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) announced today that he has partnered with Long Island Cares, Inc. and the Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank to collect emergency supplies for those struggling to survive in Puerto Rico. Those willing to provide a donation can drop off supplies at Assemblyman McDonough’s District Office at 404 Bedford Ave. in Bellmore between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Unlike areas in Houston and Florida which are less isolated and backed up by federal and state government emergency response agencies like FEMA and others, two successive hurricane both dealt the most devastating impact in Puerto Rico and recovery efforts will be ongoing for years. Over 90 percent of the country is without power, infrastructure and many homes have been widely leveled and many residents are without clean clothes or water. Some experts are predicting it will be a decade before the territory fully recovers.

“The situation in Puerto Rico is heartbreaking,” McDonough said. “Many of us cannot imagine the conditions our fellow citizens are experiencing; not knowing where their next clean glass of water is coming from or where is a safe place to spend the night. Unlike Florida and Texas which were also hard hit but have better access to government agencies and funding to help them recover, Puerto Rico’s unstable economy means these devastating conditions may persist for several years. I know my fellow Long Islanders are compassionate and helpful people and I urge everyone who has the means to consider joining me in donating to help our fellow American citizens.”

MOST NEEDED ITEMS: bottled water, baby formula/wipes, non-perishable food, aspirin, batteries, flashlights, lanterns, can openers, soap, feminine hygiene products, toothbrushes, toothpaste, bug spray, pet food, first aid supplies, diapers, ect. (Monetary donations can be made payable to the American Red Cross)