With the devastation of Hurricane Sandy that was visited on many of the residents of our diocese, the faithful of Holy Apostles Church set about to supply some relief.  Within a few days of the realization of the damage, we offered ourselves as a collection point for clothing, water, food, cleaning supplies and personal hygiene items.  The response was overwhelming, with a 26’ truck needed to transport the aid.  With time being crucial, many pick ups were done, as well as deliveries to the parish.  With every day, the aid arrived at the parish.  Items arrived from as far away as Auburn, the Holy Trinity parish in Elmira, and Newfield.  And many people in Lansing and the surrounding area helped.  At one point, a pallet of water was left at the church!  An open collection time on Wednesday, November 7^th was held, and another there was another huge response.  While non-perishable food was collected, a local shop provided food and snacks for the workers, both in Lansing and down at the Jersey Shore.

       The truck left on Friday night and found its home at St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Toms River, NJ.  This is a massive distribution point which was crawling with volunteers, as well as those who had been wiped out by Sandy.  We learned that at least  20,000 people were displaced for the long term, many with no clothing, water, or housing.  After helping to sort the donations for a few hours, the Holy Apostles team headed for home, with thanksgiving to God for all the good that is being shown by our neighbors in New Jersey, and for the comfort He is providing to them.