RI Veterans ask public for last donations and items to take to Kentucky’s tornado area – John A. Cianci

by John A Cianci, Department Veterans Service Officer,

                             Italian American War Veterans (ITAM)

Rhode Island Veterans Ongoing Drive for Supplies for Kentucky Veteran and Families in Need of a Helping Hand After Tornado.

Members of the American Legion Post Berard Desjarlias Post #88 have been collecting desperately needed items for Kentucky tornado victims.

The supplies will be shipped out on Monday to their brother and sister post, American Legion Post #23, in Kentucky.

“Our post members and their families’ critical needs are generators, flashlight, exterior power cords, batteries, fuel cans(new), working gloves, sleeping bags, tents, campers and storage tents,” said Jim from Post #23 in Kentucky.

The post began the collection on Monday and the local community support has been overwhelming.

“One family purchased 9 brand new generators,” said Ray Trinque, Post Commander.

“I saw WJAR coverage on the needs of the veterans, and had to do something, “ said Mapleville, Rhode Island man as he dropped off the generators.

The post will continue needed supplies throughout the weekend. Items can be dropped off at the post, 111 Chapel Street, Harrisville, RI from 9am to 6pm.

On Saturday the local boys scout will be assisting post members in packing.

“One of the American Legion’s local partner, Rainbow Moving Company, donated the shipping boxes and will transport the items to our partnering American Legion Post right outside of Mayville, Kentucky.” said Trinque.”The first load leaves Monday and should arrive in Kentucky by Wednesday.

After arrival, the supplies will be distributed to local veterans and their families.

“I will be on site when the trucks arrive to help distribute the item,” said Sean Trinque, son of Rhode Island Post Commander Trinque, who lives in Kentucky and has been providing daily updates to his father on the needs of the tornado victims.

The local veterans are hoping to have 25-30 generators and a cooler filled with outdoor power cords, flashlights, batteries, gas can, first aid kits, and other needed items.

“Many of the people dropping off supplies are also making cash donations,” said Linda D’Andrea Peck, Town of Burrillville Veteran Service Officer, and also a member of the American Legion Post. “A Go Fundme site has been set up called “Veterans Need a Helping Hand”.

Anyone wishing to donate the link is, https://www.gofundme.com/f/veterans-needing-helping-hand-in-kentucky

“Every penny will be spent on needed generators, coolers, etc., .” said Tringue,”We have request for campers or trailers, which can be used for temporary shelter and storge.”

The post already has commitment from one donor and hoping to travel down with any campers or trailers the day after Christmas with them and more supplies.

All donors dropping off donations are asked to sign a State of Rhode Island flag, which will also shipped with the supplies.