November 14, 2012
Dear Families and Friends,
It has been more than two weeks since Super Storm Sandy swept through the East Coast, disrupting lives and destroying communities throughout the tri-state area.
Those of us at VOICES have had similar experiences. Most of our homes in Connecticut were without power for ten days, the New Jersey staff had difficulty getting to work due to gasoline shortages, and one of our staff members is still unable to return to her apartment in Battery Park because of flooding.
At the same time, these are only small inconveniences and we recognize the need to help those families and communities less fortunate than us. Sheri Burkat, a social worker in our New Jersey office, volunteered at the Mennen Arena Morris County Shelter and the Hopatcong Shelter. She worked with the Disaster Response Crisis Counseling team to provide psychological first aid and case management as well as emotional support for displaced individuals and families. Gale Stafford, who works in our New Canaan office, volunteered to work several hours each day at the town's Emergency Operations Center. Gale answered the phones, helping residents who were reporting down trees and wires and requesting assistance.
Given the enormity of the destruction, we recognize there will be ongoing needs for support in many communities. We have compiled a list of other organizations that are looking for volunteers to assist in the recovery work. To view the list of volunteer opportunities, click here.
Warm Regards
Mary Fetchet & the VOICES Staff
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