ALBANY, N.Y. Oct. 27, 2017 — New York State United Teachers will host a collection drive for residents of Puerto Rico and the U.S.Virgin Islands impacted by Hurricane Maria. The drive is open to the public and runs Nov. 6–8, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the statewide union’s headquarters, located at 800 Troy-Schenectady Road, in Latham. Signs outside the building will direct to drop-off locations.
“A month after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, millions of residents remain without power, running water and other basic necessities,” said Andy Pallotta, NYSUT president. “We hope everyone will lend a hand to our fellow Americans in need by donating essential items.”
The union is accepting donations of batteries, flashlights, diapers, wipes, feminine hygiene products and water bottles. Items collected by NYSUT will be shipped to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands as part of the Governor’s Relief and Recovery Effort. NYSUT’s statewide network of regional offices will conduct similar drives in upcoming weeks.
Since August, NYSUT members, staff and affiliated local unions have contributed more than $100,000 to NYSUT’s Disaster Relief Fund; fundraising is ongoing. The union contributed $50,000 for relief in Puerto Rico earlier this month, and NYSUT staff launched a collection drive Oct. 23.
New York State United Teachers is a statewide union with more than 600,000 members in education, human services and health care. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.