Joseph Byrne Tuesday, November 6, 2012 |
In the wake of Hurricane Sandy many humanitarian efforts have been underway through non-profits and other organizations. Water, food, clothing, and other necessities have been coming into the area through the donations of people around the country. Now, you can add in local businesses that are mobilizing now in their own backyards, providing relief to their employees and others affected by Hurricane Sandy.
Several businesses on Long Island are now stepping up to the plate and providing money, resources, and other needed necessitities to those who have been displaced from their homes, or are still living with no electricity, water, or heat. In addition to pledging money, banks are using their branches and ATMs to raise additional funds. Several nonprofits have also partnered with these banks and are redirecting millions from gala fundraisers.
The North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System said it will donate proceeds from its Lenox Hill hospital fundraiser, typically more than $2 million, to relief efforts.
Verizon Wireless is also donating more than $3 million, including $1 million from its foundation and the remainder from customers through a donation via phone program. Verizon has also said that their customers, as of Sunday evening, had texted more than $2 million to the American Red Cross support regarding local relief efforts.
Riverhead-based Suffolk County National Bank is also going to hold a long term program from Wednesday to Nov. 23. During this time the bank will donate up to $25,000 to the American Red Cross’ “Hurricane Sandy: Help Those in Need” program, including matching donations by its employees, customers and the community at its branches and its own cash donations.
Besides these few businesses, there are several other banks, nationwide chains, and individual small businesses that are taking it upon themselves to be a part of the relief effort rather than waiting for things to get back to normal.
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