NPS Launches Relief Effort for Families in Puerto Rico

School District Develops Plan to Accept Students Relocating to Newark

 

Hurricane Maria Relief
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[Newark, New Jersey] September 29, 2017 – Newark Public Schools (NPS), will begin accepting donated items from parents and students in each of the districts 64 schools starting next week. Earlier this week, Superintendent Christopher D. Cerf joined Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, the United Way of Essex and West Hudson and a number of other agencies held a press conference to develop a plan and pledge support to help the people of Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria.

“School leadership will be working with th entire school community to particpate in this district-wide humanitarian effort,” said Christopher D. Cerf, Superintendent of Schools. “Our school district is home to thousands of people of Puerto Rican descent, many of whom have relatives living in Puerto Rico – so it is our responsibilty to help where we can and to engage others to do the same.”

The Puerto Rico Relief Effort is being coordinated through the Office of Family and Community Engagement, under the direction of Executive Director Margarita Muniz. Ms. Muniz said there are a number of requested items; including new or gently used summer clothing, baby and adult diapers, toothpaste and toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products and clothing for all ages.

In addition, NPS will support the October 8 relief effort at the Flamboyan Manor sponsored by the American Red Cross, Mayor Baraka, and Councilman-At-Large Luis Quintana and North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos, Jr.