Warwick residents raise $7,000 - and still counting - for Puerto Rican disaster relief

Multiple strong and damaging earthquakes in southern Puerto Rico since last December, which have caused many serious injuries and collapsed numerous buildings, are reported as most damaging since 1918.

And Puerto Rico has been under a state of emergency since Jan. 6.

As usual, many Warwick residents and business owners stepped up to the plate to help the victims.

On Sunday, Feb. 9, Warwick businesswoman Frances Bachmann, who is of Puerto Rican descent, hosted a Puerto Rico earthquake relief fund raiser at Coquito restaurant on Forester Avenue.

The festive event featured food and music along with a tricky tray, 50/50 and golden tickets which included two family hotel rooms in Cancun donated by Luxevo Vacations.

There were approximately 200 guests and the event raised $7,000 and still counting as donations keep coming in.

Proceeds will go to World Central Kitchen-PR, which was created by Chef José Andrés. World Central Kitchen is a not-for-profit non-governmental organization devoted to providing meals in the wake of natural disasters.

Founded in 2010 by celebrity chef José Andrés, the organization prepares food to those affected by natural disasters around the world.

“What a successful fund raiser for Puerto Rico Earthquake Relief,” said Bachmann. “I want to thank everyone for their contributions and support especially emcee Rhina Valentin, the musicians and entertainers and, more importantly, Valentino of Coquito for providing the venue and donation.”

She urges everyone to continue helping the victims of this disaster.

- Roger Gavan