Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama, Puerto Rico Rises from Alabama hosting disaster relief events

Birmingham residents looking to help those affected by the earthquake in Mexico and Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico will have a chance to make a difference this weekend. 

On Saturday, Oct. 7, people are encouraged to drop off items at Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama (HICA) for its Puerto Rico Island and Mexico Disaster Relief event. The drop off location, located at 117 South Crest Drive in Homewood, will be accepting donations from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Below are the list of items that can be donated:

• Water bottles
• Candles
• Matches or lighters
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Paper towels
• Can openers
• Canned/dry food 
• Hygiene items, feminine items and toiletries
• Cleaning supplies
• First Aid kit items
• Disposable plates and cups
• Garbage bags
• Clothing
• Diapers for babies and adults
• Powdered milk
• School supplies
• Mosquito nets
• Mosquito repellent (liquid)
• C and D batteries

In addition to Oct. 7, Puerto Rico Rises from Alabama will also be accepting donations on Oct. 14 at Shades Mountain Baptist Church to help those affected by Hurricane Maria. 

For more information, go to hispanicinterest.org/ or call 942-5505.

Editor's note: This article was edited on Oct. 6 at 9:15 a.m. to correct the name of the Puerto Rico Island and Mexico Disaster Relief event; to note that Puerto Rico Rises from Alabama is hosting the event on Oct. 14; and to include additional items on the list of requested items.