Food & Supply Drive for Buffalo Community To Help Our Neighbors by Senator Gallivan

Dear Neighbor,

It has been over a week since Buffalo, WNY and the nation were left horrified by the evil act of violence at a Tops supermarket.  Now, we are confronted with an inexplicable assault at an elementary school in Texas.  The senseless murder of innocent people forces us to cope with multiple emotions, including shock, sadness, grief and anger.

My deepest condolences go to the families and friends of the victims of both of these tragedies.      

The perpetrator of the racist act in Buffalo must be held accountable.  As we learn more about his twisted views and beliefs, we must work to prevent anything like this from happening again.  That includes making sure our law enforcement agencies and criminal justice system have the resources necessary to prevent violent crime including acts of domestic terrorism, such as this.

In the meantime, the community where this happened is in need of our help.  That is why my office is joining the Resource Council of WNY’s Community Response – Love in Action Campaign to collect food and supplies for residents impacted by the shooting.  The Tops store remains closed, leaving the entire neighborhood without a place to buy food and other household items.

In addition to non-perishable food items, the Resource Council is in need of diapers, baby wipes, body wash, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant and other toiletries.  They are also asking for household cleaning supplies, laundry soap and paper towels.

The Resource Council has created a wish list where needed items can be purchased directly through Amazon.

Donated items can be dropped off at our Elma Office at 2721 Transit Road, Suite 116 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday – Friday.  Donations will be accepted through June 10.

There is no place for the hatred and racism displayed at that Tops supermarket. While we must never forget what happened there, let us honor the victims by remembering how our community responded and what we can do to make Buffalo, WNY, our state and our nation better.

Thank you for your consideration.