The following was sent to YWN by the Achiezer Organization:

The following important update should be shared and forwarded with anyone that you know in the Far Rockaway and Five Towns area.

Water:
The tap water in the Woodmere area was thought to have had contamination issues last night. As of 10:45 AM this morning the Village of Lawrence representatives have informed us that the water in the Five Towns is not contaminated, and is potable.

Electricity:
Unfortunately there is no further update since last night. LIPA trucks are out on the street, but it can still be anywhere from 3-7 days until power is restored.

We again want to reiterate that if you know of any elderly or handicapp residents in the area, please make arrangements to get them to a different location until the power is restored.
We have been informed that there may be some generators for sale in the Five Towns area today for those that wish to purchase them. As soon as we have more concrete information we will post it to the community.

Food:
As of now there is one location in Bayswater and one in Cedarhurst.
In Bayswater the JCCRP will be distributing food starting at 11 AM. If you are able to assist them, please go to the Young Israel which is located at 2716 Healy Avenue. Additionally anyone with FEMA requests can discuss them there as well. Their phone number is 718-327-8606.

We have received the following message from Rabbi Wolowik at the Chabad of the Five Towns.

“Thanks so much to Nachi Light of QCumbers in Cedarhurst who has generously offered to provide delicious fresh meals at Chabad to those who do not have power or cooking facilities. This food will be served at Chabad of the Five Towns, 74 Maple Avenue in Cedarhurst, TODAY, Wednesday October 31 starting at 11:00 AM-6:00 PM. Feel free to come with your families and enjoy hot soups, salads and more!
We thank Hashem for restoring power at Chabad so that we may help others. You are welcome to bring your laptops and cell phones to charge up.”

Additionally Brachs Supermarket in Lawrence has advised us that their store is open.

Safety:
The community should be aware that the RCSP was out in the Far Rockaway/Bayswater last night, and along with the police department they will remain on the streets for the duration of this crisis.

As soon as we have any other pertinent updates we will share them with our community immediately.

Hatzolah is obviously available for emergencies, and their number again is 718-387-1750 or 718-230-1000

Thank you all for your patience, and may we all get through this difficult week as easily as possible.
Although our hotline has now fielded more than 900 calls since Sunday morning, our office center is up and running and the number is 516-791-4444.

(YWN Desk – NYC)