As a multi-national legion of firefighters combat the last of the major wildfires in Greece which have killed at least 64 people and threatened to topple the government in the next elections, local and national lawmakers are calling for more aid to the beleaguered country.
Congressmember Carolyn B. Maloney, Co-Chair of the 130-member Congressional Hellenic Caucus, said, “My deepest sympathies go out to the people of Greece who are battling the worst fires their country has seen in 150 years,” adding, “It is important for the United States to do everything possible to assist Greece in overcoming this enormous tragedy.”
Smoke from the week-long series of conflagrations has been clearly visible from space, satellite images show.
In addition to the loss of life and destruction of homes, vast swaths of olive trees, a major Greek economic resource for over 3,000 years, have been destroyed.
State Assemblymember Michael Gianaris, New York’s first Greek-American elected official, has called upon both Governor Eliot Spitzer and Mayor Michael Bloomberg to send aid to “the thousands of Greek citizens affected by the terrible tragedy.”
Gianaris, who represents Astoria, which has the world’s largest Greek community outside of Greece, reminded the state’s two most powerful executives, “When New York was in a time of great need, countries around the world selflessly offered crucial assistance. This is our chance to return the care and support shown to us.”
City Councilmember Peter Vallone, Jr., who also represents Astoria said, “Greece is a cradle of modern culture, and well worth saving or repairing every inch. I hope the federal government remembers the strong relationship our country has shared in their time of need, not just for the people in Greece, but for their countrymen here in America.”
A consortium of Greek-American civic groups continues its fundraising efforts.
How to help
The Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York, a non-profit corporation, has established accounts with five New York banks for a Fire Relief Fund for Greece. Anyone can make a tax-deductible deposit in these accounts, or send a check to Federation of Hellenic Societies Fire Relief Fund, 22-51 29th Street, Astoria, NY 11105.
Atlantic Bank Account Number: 0009081631
Marathon Bank Account Number: 1000029867
Commerce Bank Account Number: 7922703702
Millennium Bank BCP Account Number: 1330002679
First Central Savings Bank Account Number: 0700002140
