Gerritsen Beach, a tight-knit community in South Brooklyn that is nearly surrounded by water on all sides, was devastated by Hurricane Sandy. Because Gerritsen was not deemed an evacuation zone by the city, many residents stayed in the neighborhood during the storm, and several report being rescued by neighbors from the upper floors of their homes. In the aftermath, Gerritsen Beach residents have turned to two institutions that are mainstays of the community for help -- Resurrection Church and the volunteer fire department. Odyssey Networks spent a day in the community as residents, with the help of volunteers, started the cleanup process. "Gerritsen Beach is forgotten, it's never been on the map," said Ellen Dailey, a resident whose home was flooded. "We're always the last to have response to clean up. Not this time."
If you'd like to volunteer, or donate items to Gerritsen Beach, contact the Gerritsen Beach Fire Department at (718) 332-9292.
I'm also originally from "the beach" but although moved when I was only 10, spent all of my teen yrs back there every weekend & weeks at a time in the summer. I couldn't have grown up in a better place & have such wonderful childhood memories of it there. I honestly don't believe there is any other place quite like it is there!!! Still have many close friends & family there & my heart continues to break for everyone who lost everything & continue to struggle thru each day. Not a day goes by, that you all continue 2 b in my thoughts & prayers..BTW, has anyone gone to the "GERRITSEN BEACH CARES" FB page....they have a link there to a "Wish list" on www.Amazon.com that they made up of things needed & listed in order of how badly, such as highest level, high, etc & also amount of ea. needed. It's a great way to send things(free shipping I believe) to them if you are able...even things under $10 & every little bit would help. So if u would rather donate/help that way, instead of sending a check & do it anonymously, can do it that way..I really don't think a lot of people know about it so trying to spread the word...still sooooo many things they really need, every day items,things such as garbage bags, T.P., paper towels,& plastic spoons & such for when(STILL) serving meals. Just thought I'd add this in for anyone unaware & wanting to help somehow. I thought it was a great idea & felt good being able 2 send some things that way..but please go to that FB page & even if u could just re-post the link on ur own FB page to get it out there. God Bless u all & I know GB will get back to that same place I remember, with even tighter bonds then b4, after going thru all this together. Hang in there till then & remember u are not forgotten about just because its not "new news" anymore.
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