They have set up stations in Midland Beach at the Parish Hall of St. Margaret Mary's RC Church, where residents and volunteer can get a hot meal, refresh themselves, and get donated supplies. At this site they had arranged for free legal advice and there was a nurse outside giving tetanus and flu shots as well as first aid as needed.
Coach explained that Eddie Canlon, who owns a local family restaurant has been bringing trays of food on a daily basis to this site. Canlon has been doing it out of his own pocket since the beginning. Coach can tell that it was becoming a financial strain on Canlon, but he would never say a word. Hence, the call to ask other to help out. The telephone calls to Canlon’s Restaurant and people chipping in by credit card donations to Eddie's costs have helped.
Coach Kevin and other volunteers, including his group of retired cops and firemen as well as Knights of Columbus Council 1662 (22 Hillside Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10308. Tel. # (718) 317-0343) have been assisting with the preparation and serving the food, as well as hands-on help to people affected.
This is legitimate. I got there just before lunch time and the KofC had burgers going on the grill station they had set up outside the hall. Coach Kevin and a retired NYPD Cop were inside serving hot soup and encouragement.
If you want to help, they are doing good work.
Coach Kevin also explained that the letters of encouragement that people all over the country have sent are a big help. The letters and cards get passed around and help to lift spirits. If you can send a letter or a card telling the folks that you are thinking about them and even praying for them it would really help
[I do not know if cash or credit card donations to Canlon’s to pay for a tray of food are tax deductible or not. I suspect they are not, since he is a businessman, just helping his neighbors. Donations to the Knights of Columbus probably are tax deductible. If you want to send a large donation, perhaps you could call the Kof C and get the details.)
I'll forward some additional info later today, if I get a break at work.
Thanks, and stay safe.