"Nassau County has a history of reaching out to victims of natural disasters throughout the world, the County Executive said. The devastating floods in the Dominican Republic and Haiti are no exception." With an estimated 15,000 residents come from the Dominican Republic and thousands more from Haiti, the recent natural tragedies hit especially close to home. "We would like to help link County residents with the lead relief agencies," County Executive Suozzi said. "I have designated CASA as the lead County agency, which will partner with Suffolk County and local Dominican and Haitian community members to coordinate local relief efforts."

"The items most needed are non-perishable foods, bottled water, and clothing for children and adults, basic tools and medical supplies, said Marianela Jordan, Executive Director of CASA. "We want to let people know what is truly needed so that humanitarian efforts can be maximized and much-needed donations are collected locally and then forwarded to the lead agencies in charge of the effort," said Jordan.

Relief organizations are accepting donations at three drop-off sites in Nassau County:

• Nassau County CASA
  40 Main Street, Hempstead
  (516) 572-0570
  
• Our Holy Redeemer Church,
  37 S. Ocean Ave, Freeport
  (516) 378-0665
  
• Compare Foods Supermarket
  120 N. Main Street, Freeport
  (516) 546-8033