Hurricane Sandy has left much death, destruction and homelessness. Our neighbors in Broad Channel, the Rockaways, Howard Beach and Breezy Point are truly hurting .
Let’s not forgot Staten Island and New Jersey who are hurting as well. They have lost homes, property, and some are homeless and fighting the cold. We need to help by volunteering and by donating money, food and clothing. You can do this by contacting the American Red, Catholic Charities, churches, temples and other community groups.
As for myself I am with the Knights of Columbus and are now involved in raising funds for this disaster. The Supreme Council of the Knights of Columbus which represents over 15.000 councils world wide, has just donated $50,000 to New York and $50,000 to New Jersey’s disaster relief fund and has asked all councils to aid in the relief effort. There are many organizations across America that I believe who are doing this as well.
Please give even if it is a little for even a little means a lot to those who have lost everything.In closing I’m reminded of a poem by Rudyard Kipling called,” IF,” and say in part:
“Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
and stoop and build’ em up with worn-out-tools.
And so hold on when there is nothing in you except the will which say to them; “Hold on!”
Now that is what America is all about.
Frederick R.Bedell Jr.
Glen Oaks Village
