Rapid response team designed to meet the basic needs of Hamburg residents negatively impacted by Coronavirus epidemic

Hamburg, NY - Erie County Legislator John Gilmour announced today that he has partnered with the #feedHamburg outreach program to support the town and village of Hamburg community by providing essentials to families during this difficult time.  As part of his commitment, Legislator Gilmour has also made a substantial financial contribution to aid in start-up costs.

“The most important thing we can do during this time of crisis is to help the most vulnerable in our community. The unknown duration of this pandemic means that we have to be ready to act and that we need the continuous ability to serve those people who are in need. The needs will change over time, and we are looking at collecting many items including non-perishables but also personal hygiene items that may run low,” said Legislator Gilmour.

Nicole Dayka, who works as a Youth at Risk Coordinator for Hamburg Central School District and also contracts in youth services for the Town of Hamburg, is spearheading the day to day operations of the outreach. “In addition to the material donations, we are also accepting financial donations to help bridge the gap for more specific needs that families may unexpectedly encounter. These can be made via Venmo in order to avoid in person or cash donations.  The initial outpouring has been incredible - vendors have offered to donate profits from their sales, restaurants have donated hot meals, and individuals have stepped up with whatever they can afford.  I am grateful to Legislator Gilmour for his help in this effort, and I know the Hamburg community will continue to rally and support each other.”

#FeedHamburg currently has a drop off location at the Old Time Baptist Church located at 5599 Camp Road in Hamburg from 9 am to 12 noon on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday where proper safety precautions are being taken to avoid social contact.  Legislator Gilmour will also accept donations at his district office (5630 Camp Road) of personal hygiene items.  A tote outside of the office is in place to accept donated basic hygiene supplies for future kit assembly.

For additional information about how you can help #feedHamburg, please contact Nicole at 826-2226 or Diane in Legislator Gilmour’s office at 649-2162. Information and a link to donate can be found at feedhamburg.com or you can use Venmo directly (@feedHamburg). Hamburg based residents in need should also use these contact numbers. Additional support or resources, including emergency childcare help and information about Coronavirus support for families and affected individuals, can be found on the Erie County Department of Social Services website at www.erie.gov/socialservices.