SoFla Steps Up to Aid Storm-Stricken El Salvador

By DIANA GONZALEZ

Updated 11:00 PM EST, Thu, Nov 12, 2009

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Aid from South Florida is on its way to some of the victims of a storm system that recently rocked Central America.

Food for the poor, based in Coconut Creek, is rushing containers filled with food and other supplies, most of which is going to El Salvador, which was hit the hardest.

Today oficials from that country expressed their gratitude, but also the need for more help.

“We can't believe the pictures we see of our country. They're completely devastated,“ said Vice Consul Florence Kriete.

El Salvador Aid

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El Salvador Aid

At the consulate of El Salvador in Coral Gables, officials gave an update on the storm's aftermath: 160 people were killed, another 60 are missing. Severe flooding completely destroyed 2,000 homes.

“They have lost all they have. They have lost their house. They lost their belongings. They lost their clothing. They don't have anything to eat. They need medicine,” said Vice Consul Kriete.

They also need tents and bedding for portable shelters that will house the thousands who had to be evacuated.

At Vecinos en Accion (Neighbors in Action), food, clothing and personal hygeine items are being dropped off. A large room is packed with donated supplies.

Want to help?

Other locations accepting relief supplies inlucde:

43 NW 27th Ave., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

2610 SW 8th St.

Miami Beach City Hall (Comm. Toven’s office)

1793 West 37th St., Hialeah