HOPE for North Port and Iglesia Nueva Esperanza invite the public to donate items to help those in Puerto Rico affected by the recent earthquake and aftershocks. "Operation Hope for Puerto Rico" will collect items now through Jan. 25 to fill a shipping container with supplies that will be distributed to areas of the country that are struggling to receive relief. The organizations are also seeking to raise $15,000 to cover the cost of the shipment. 

Donation are being accepted at 5600 S. Biscayne Driveon Mondays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Saturdays from 5-8 p.m.; and Sundays from 7-11 a.m. On Saturday, Jan. 25, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., donated items will be inventoried and loaded for shipment.

Individuals who wish to volunteer or who have questions may contact Angela Berard at (941) 525-4934 or [email protected]. Spanish-speaking individuals may contact Arquelio Ruiz at (941) 587-2169.