Aiding disaster victims in Louisiana and Italy

In response to the flooding in Livingston Parish in Louisiana and the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that struck  the Italian towns of Amatrice, Accumoli and Pescara del Tronto in August, Five Towners are responding with financial help.

Temple Israel of Lawrence has asked members of its congregation to donate money to the synagogue’s disaster relief fund for people in both places. Rabbi Jay Rosenbaum, spiritual leader of the temple noted that his congregation shares a relationship with the Jewish and non-Jewish communities in Italy due to the high school exchange program that has existed for the past 15 years.

“The American Jewish community has always responded with charity and support to those who have had their lives profoundly affected by natural disasters and tragic events,” Rosenbaum said. 

A $250 donation was sent to the Italian earthquake victims from the New York State Division of Kiwanis International, which includes the Kiwanis Club of the Five Towns and Peninsula Kiwanis. The division’s Lt. Gov., Bruce Brooks, oversees the disbursement of money raised by the clubs in the state division. “Kiwanis is all about helping others; we help those in need,” said the 30-year Kiwanis member, who is serving his third term as Lt. Gov.  

Inwood-based Sons of Italy Leonardo da Vinci Lodge 2385 is planning to help the earthquake victims in some fashion, Lodge officials said.