V-O-T-E and H-E-L-P–New York, NY

It’s been a long week since the storm and NYC is still getting back on our feet, but many took a pause today to get out and vote.  Kudos to Governor Cuomo for signing an executive order that allows NY’ers to vote at any polling place in NY State.  Some great kids who had today off from school–again–for election day, went up and down our long voting line selling coffee and baked goods while repeatedly shouting “to benefit Hurricane Sandy’s victims!!” (repeat).  It was nice to see.

There was a flurry of volunteerism over the weekend and a strong feeling of the community pulling together.  One place where I tried to lend a hand had so many volunteers that I was turned away.  But many city residents are still out there without heat or power, it’s getting colder, and we’ve got a storm on the way.  If you are still looking for ways to help, here are some ideas:

LOCAL:
Check here for various places to donate and volunteer.
The JCC near us stopped accepting warm clothes on Sunday, but most donation places are still in need of: batteries, lanterns, toiletries (think toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo), baby items (formula, baby food, onesies, diapers, wipes), new socks, new underwear, and cleaning supplies. Also needed are new sleeping bags in packaging, new hats and gloves—the kind people can wear to sleep in.

Try to follow these helpful tips if donating clothes.

FROM AFAR:
Donate to: The Food Bank of New York, who has set up an emergency fund for the disaster.
The American Red Cross or donate $10 by text-messaging the word REDCROSS to 90999.
Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City or donate $10 by text-messaging the word NYCFUND to 50555.  Donations will support immediate needs, including distribution centers in the city where people can get food, water, blankets, and hygiene supplies. One hundred percent of the funds will go to relief efforts and organizations. The fund will also go toward long-term restoration.

Some moms in my neighborhood have also set up registries for friends of theirs who live in the affected neighborhoods and lost everything.  One woman was evacuated by raft from her home with her 2 yr old daughter and newborn son.  If you would like to directly help this family, please visit http://www.diapers.com/baby-registry/148081/Yois-Molano.

Off to watch the election results.  Fingers and toes crossed to move FORWARD.