The Haverstraw Relief Task Force presents a check for more than $2,000 to the American Red Cross to help residents of Peru affected by last year’s massive earthquake. Pictured from left: Bonnie Fletcher, director, American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC/GNY) - Rockland; Christophe Lobry-Boulanger, international services program manager, ARC/GNY; Mirna Perez, secretary, Haverstraw Relief Task Force; Robyn Alexander, community development associate, ARC/GNY - Rockland; and Rafael Espaillat, owner of El Clarin newspaper and president of the Haverstraw Relief Task Force. (Photo: Rose Marie Fajardo)

The Haverstraw Relief Task Force presented a check for $2,268.20 to the American Red Cross to support the organization's efforts to assist the people of Peru affected by a massive earthquake that struck the central coastal region of that country last August 16. More than 500 Peruvians died and many thousands were injured and left homeless by the quake.

The Haverstraw Relief Task Force raised funds through community activities that included dancing/entertainment events and bake sales. Rafael Espaillat, owner of Haverstraw-based El Clarin, which is published monthly for the Hispanic community of Rockland, is president of the Haverstraw Relief Task Force.

Along with Mirna Perez, a resident of Spring Valley and secretary of the organization, they presented the donation to the American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC/GNY) - Rockland at the organization"s office at 143 North Broadway in Nyack.

The American Red Cross in Greater New York is a key humanitarian partner and a vital participant in New York’s plans and programs to help the nine million people in New York City and Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Sullivan counties prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. ARC/GNY provides immediate aid to more than 100,000 people affected by 3,000 emergencies a year, including fires, floods, building collapses and blackouts. Given the uncertainties of today’s world, the chapter is accelerating its collaboration with partner agencies to develop and implement readiness plans to respond to major natural and man-made disasters. The chapter also helps New York residents and businesses prepare for emergencies by offering hundreds of courses in first aid, CPR and aquatics and free emergency preparedness training programs and resources.

ARC/GNY is not a governmental organization and relies on individual and corporate gifts, special events and grants from foundations and local, state and federal government to fund its essential programs and services. For more information about volunteering, donating and training, call 1-877 REDCROSS (1-877-733-2767), or visit www.nyredcross.org.