Lauderdale Lakes initiates “Jamaica Relief Drive”and Prayer Service for Hurricane victims
LAUDERDALE LAKES — The City of Lauderdale Lakes has initiated several efforts in response to Hurricane Dean’s recent impact on Jamaica. Foremost of these efforts is the “Jamaica Relief Drive,” being coordinated in partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Lauderdale Lakes/West Sunrise to collect and distribute emergency supplies to the island.
“Although Jamaica did not suffer a direct hit from Dean, there has been tremendous damage to personal property and produce. While we do not have exact and final details of the effect of Dean as yet, we are sure that the impact is substantial,” says Deputy Vice Mayor Barrington Russell, Sr., who is also a Kiwanis past president.
City officials have designated the Lauderdale Lakes Community Council, located at 3720 West Oakland Park Boulevard in the Lauderdale Marketplace, as a drop-off and staging point for donations. Lauderdale Lakes residents and other south Floridians are being asked to donate critically-needed items such as non-perishable food items, batteries, flashlights, first aid kits, battery operated radios and bottled water. Donations will be accepted weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In addition to the relief drive, the City has also planned a special ecumenical prayer service to be held this Tuesday, August 28 at 6:30 p.m. in the Commission Chambers at City Hall, 4300 NW 36th Street. Local ministers have been invited to participate and the event is open to the public.
“We remember what the City of Lauderdale Lakes experienced just a few years ago in the aftermath of Hurricane Wilma. This is why we are reaching out to appeal for and provide assistance – both material and spiritual – to our fellow countrymen in their time of need,” says Mayor Samuel A. Brown.
