CORAL GABLES, FL — In response to the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, the City of Coral Gables is collecting donations at all four Coral Gables fire stations to support relief efforts through Global Empowerment Mission (GEM).
Coral Gables is home to many Venezuelan families, and this humanitarian crisis is deeply personal for many members of the community. Residents, businesses and community partners are invited to donate new, unopened, approved emergency relief supplies to help families affected by the earthquakes.
“Today our hearts are with everyone affected by this tragedy,” said Mayor Vince Lago. “In moments of crisis, our community always steps forward. We invite residents and businesses to help us send urgently needed aid to Venezuela through Global Empowerment Mission.”
Donations
Donations will be accepted from June 30 through July 6, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Residents dropping off donations are asked not to block fire station bay doors, emergency access areas, driveways or roadways.
Locations:
- Fire Station 1: 2151 Salzedo St. Coral Gables, FL 33134
- Fire Station 2: 525 S. Dixie Highway Coral Gables, FL 33146
- Fire Station 3: 11911 Old Cutler Road Coral Gables, FL 33156
- Firehouse 4: 1345 Sunset Drive Coral Gables, FL 33143
Accepted items include:
Nonperishable food
Canned proteins, including chicken and Vienna sausage; canned goods, including beans, fruit and vegetables; snacks, including bars, crackers and chips; and cases of water. Spring water will not be accepted.
Hygiene supplies
Toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper and wet wipes.
Children’s supplies
Diapers, wet wipes and children’s hygiene products.
Disaster supplies
Flashlights, batteries, lanterns and small portable radios.
Items Not Accepted
The city is not accepting clothing, used household items or loose, non-boxed goods. All donated items should be new, unopened and ready for transport.
The city is not accepting cash donations. Those wishing to make a financial contribution should donate directly through GEM.
Additional City Assistance
In addition to the donation collection, Coral Gables Fire Rescue Division Chief Louis Fajardo has deployed with South Florida Urban Search and Rescue Task Force 2 to assist with rescue operations in Venezuela.
“The Fire Department’s motto is ‘Committed to Our Community,’ and that commitment extends beyond our borders when people are in need,” said Fire Chief Marcos De La Rosa. “We are extremely proud that Coral Gables Fire Rescue is able to play a role in assisting those affected by this disaster, and we wish Chief Fajardo Godspeed in this honorable mission.”
