From Carol Gomrick

Like you I have been riveted by the news of the train derailment in East Palestine. I felt compelled to act. I did some research and came across information provided by “Cleveland Moms” – an organization dedicated to providing local support to moms and communities in the Cleveland area. 
 
The website has a page dedicated to providing information on how to assist residents of East Palestine. Two organizations were cited, “The Brightside Project” and “The Way Station“. These are established food and clothing assistance centers in the East Palestine area. I spoke to The Brightside Project to understand what is needed by the residents. These organizations know the residents  and are coordinating with each other to address their needs. Some of the suggestions were:
 
Bottle water | Gallon jugs – these are easier to use for cooking/cleaning/bathing
Cleaning products | the contamination is airborne, it’s in clothing / bedding and residents are doing a lot of laundry and trying to keep food surfaces clean.
Baby Products – Sensitive and regular baby formula / diapers*
*Diapers are in great demand and multiple sizes are needed.
 
The Brightside Project is currently rehabbing a school bus to provide door to door delivery of items to residents who do not have transportation or are homebound.
 
I’d like to take what I learned about the needs of the residents and do a road trip with donations. My ask is a monetary donation and I’ll purchase the products – load up my vehicle and drive the products out to East Palestine for drop off. I’ll share with you what’s purchased.
 
–I plan to go on or before March 3.
 
Any remaining money from purchases will go to one of the organizations mentioned above.
Please note: This is not an Allegheny West Civic Council sanctioned activity. This is just about neighbors helping neighbors.
 
I’m accepting cash or check – (I’m still a luddite at heart | no Zelle or Venmo). Please let me know if you’d like to donate. Please email me if you’d like to donate or drop off your monetary donation at 940 W North.