(Brooklyn, NY) -- Brooklyn Democratic Party Chair Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn released the following statement about the ongoing crisis in Haiti from last week’s 7.2 magnitude earthquake, including how you can help and where to get mental health support if you are struggling:
“Haiti is reeling from the earthquake, compounded by a powerful storm that hit earlier this week. The official death toll has topped 2,100 and is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue. Hundreds of thousands are living without proper shelter, food or clean water as rescue workers struggle to deliver relief. It is utterly heart wrenching.
The Brooklyn Democratic Party stands in solidarity with Haiti. It is not only critical that we offer our prayers and support, but also our help.
We strongly urge everyone to donate desperately-needed items, including canned goods, toiletries, baby items, flashlights and feminine products, which will be expediently delivered to those in need.
You can drop off items at my Assembly office, 1312 Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn, Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also donate supplies at any NYPD precinct, and you can find your local one here.
Please understand that NYC has one of the largest Haitian populations in the US, and it is a difficult time for the community here, where nearly everyone knows victims - often close friends and relatives.
As a Haitian American, I want to let my fellow people here know that you are not alone, and there are resources to help with the trauma. The city is providing grief and mental health counseling. Mobile mental health centers are stationed at the Haitian American Council Training Center and Evangelical Crusade Christian Church in Brooklyn. You can also call 888-NYC-WELL. The hotline provides support in multiple languages, including Haitian Creole.
Haiti has suffered many setbacks throughout its tumultuous history, but its people have always remained resilient and maintained hope in the face of adversity, as they will continue to do. The Haitian American community stands resolutely in support of our brothers and sisters abroad. We remain united in our support for the country’s recovery.”
