New Jersey Italian organizations are accepting donations to aid the relief effort after the devastating earthquake in central Italy.
New Jersey Italian organizations are working to raise money to help victims impacted by the devastating earthquake in Central Italy early Wednesday that left at least 50 dead and hundreds injured.
The UNICO National branch in Fairfield said in a statement that UNICO -- the nation's largest Italian-American service and charitable organization -- is accepting donations through its relief fund, which it has used in the aftermath of other disasters and tragedies.
"Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims and survivors," said Dominick Nicastro, national president of UNICO in the statement. "We are saddened by the loss of lives and the many injured, homeless and severely impacted people of that area."
Donations to the UNICO Foundation Disaster Relief Fund can be sent to 271 U.S. Highway 46 West, Suite F-103, Fairfield, N.J. 07004.
Nicholas Schaefer, manager of the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission who also has Italian citizenship with countless friends in the country, was heartbroken when he learned of the destruction caused by the 6.2 magnitude earthquake that hit the central region of the country at around 3:30 a.m., according to the Associated Press.
"I immediately thought, 'Are they OK?'" Shaefer said.
He had reached out to them soon after hearing about the earthquake. Though he hasn't heard back, he said he assumes they are all fine, as they live more north of the affected area.
Regardless, he said, he remains devastated by the destruction.
Shaefer, an Italian-American, had lived in Italy, teaching English in Milan.
The NJIHC has been promoting on its Facebook page ways to donate to help the relief effort.
One of the ways is through the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), which has a donation page at www.niaf.org.
The Red Cross is also accepting donations. Visit www.ammado.com.
Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find the Find NJ.com on Facebook.