Members of the Hollywood Fire Department and local residents have been working hard to bring essential supplies together to be shipped to victims of Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas. So far, about two cargo containers have been filled with supplies and are being sent to the Bahamas.
Hollywood Fire Chief Rodolfo Jurado and Chuck Tullio, president of the Hollywood Professional Firefighters Local 1375 met to discuss an effort to collect donations to be sent to the Bahamas. About 50 firefighters and about 30 volunteers have been collecting baby supplies, water, hygiene kits, nonperishable food and canned goods at the Fire Training Facility at 3400 North 56th Avenue. People are being encouraged to drop off donations at the Training Facility is serving as the primary donation site.
Tullio said, “Volunteers are out here to help those who can’t help themselves right now.”
Hollywood Firefighter Lieutenant Anthony Vera, who is spearheading the donation effort said, “I am very proud to be working with the men and women of the Hollywood Fire Department, residents and CERT volunteers to truly make a difference in the lives of those in need,”
Randi Meshel, a volunteer with CERT has served as a volunteer to help collect and organize supplies. Her husband Harvey Meshel and her son Jordan Meshel has also volunteered in the effort. “We are helping people who can’t help themselves. I want to help people in the Bahamas. They need everything.”
Dammeris Gamayo and Meyra Garcia are among members of Reino Poder & Gloria church. They were bringing items to be sent to the Bahamas. “We want to help and that is why we are here. We brought basic items such as canned foods and towels,” said Garcia.
Gamayo said, “We want to help the people in the Bahamas.”
Donations will be accepted through September 19 at the Fire Training Facility daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.