Brooklyn Borough President

Brooklyn Responds to Hurricane Katrina

Donations to aid the victims of Katrina can be made by calling the Red Cross at 800-435-7669 (English language) or 800-257-7575 (Spanish language), or by logging on to www.nyredcross.org.

August 30, 2005 - Borough President Marty Markowitz urges all Brookynites to participate in the nationwide efforts to provide relief for victims of Hurricane Katrina. He has also reached out to Carnival Cruise Lines urging Carnival and the cruise industry as a whole to use its ships and other resources to aid the victims.

“I am calling upon all US operators to use every seaworthy ship and perhaps consider canceling cruises because this is an emergency and people ' s vacations can be deferred until the emergency passes,” Marty said.

“Words are slim comfort during difficult times, but Brooklynites’ thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been displaced and those who have lost loved ones.

“I am confident that Brooklynites, who are known for their generous nature, can be counted upon to come to the aid of our southern neighbors. Last September Brooklyn supported the residents of Haiti after the ravages of tropical storm Jeanne. Brooklynites also showed strong support to thousands in Southeast Asia immediately after the devastating tsunami in December. Now I urge all Brooklyn residents to log on or call to give whatever funds you can, as I know you will.”