Huntington, NY - November 30, 2016 - In response to the devastating effects that Hurricane Matthew inflicted upon Haiti, Councilman Mark Cuthbertson joined forces with the owner of a local Haitian restaurant to help raise funds and awareness of a much needed humanitarian effort following this impactful storm.

“There is a dire humanitarian need to help feed and care for the children of Haiti due to the effects of Hurricane Matthew – one of the strongest storm systems to hit this region in over 52 years,” stated Councilman Mark Cuthbertson. “We are very fortunate to have a caring and supportive business community in the town, and the owner of a local Haitian restaurant, Marie Michele Destil of Gingerbites wholeheartedly opened her doors to help join in this effort,” added Cuthbertson. 

Hurricane Matthew, a category 4 storm with wind speeds of 145mph inflicted a devastating blow to the southern province of Haiti on October 4, 2016. It was one of the hardest hitting systems in Haiti’s history and sadly one of the deadliest.  This was the impetus for Councilman Cuthbertson’s “Help for Haiti” fundraiser kick off at Gingerbites Restaurant & Catering on November 14. Hurricane Matthew destroyed Haiti’s food stock and livestock and left hundreds upon thousands of Haiti’s children without food or medical needs.

Those interested in donating to this very worthy cause, can make monetary deposits at the collection boxes at Gingerbites Restaurant & Catering located at 730 East Jericho Turnpike in Huntington Station or in the main lobby at Huntington Town Hall, located at 100 Main Street in Huntington -- through December 31^st, 2016.

All proceeds will benefit the “Meds & Food for Kids” Haitian charity, which is a 501(3) (c) organization that is devoted to saving the lives of Haiti’s children. Checks will be gladly accepted and they can be made out to “Meds & Food for Kids” and in the notes section, please write: “Hurricane Matthew Relief.”