Peralta, Monserrate Join Code Blue Initiative

Assemblymember Jose R. Peralta and City Councilmember Hiram Monserrate, with the generous help of Health Plus health insurance and RWDSU Local 338, will be giving away warm winter coats to help keep New Yorkers warm during this frigid time of year. Peralta and Monserrate are taking the initiative to combat the harsh realities that families face here in New York. It has been concluded by a recent study at Berkeley University that extreme cold weather causes death and decreases the life expectancy for those who are not well equipped and cannot provide a warm coat, gloves or a scarf.

Peralta stated, "New York is very cold and in today's economy, heating homes and apartments is very expensive. I am trying to spread the word about initiatives to combat mortality and illnesses by giving free coats to families in need, and by providing information to the families under my care about heating grants and weatherization tips for their places of living."

Monserrate explained, "It is important for our community to be aware of the resources made available to them. For people who do not have the resources to purchase their own coat, this can be a lifesaver. The Economic Development Center is in a key location for members of our community to obtain a winter coat to keep warm for the remainder of the season."

Anyone having difficulties paying for heat, can call HEAP at 800-692-0057 or go to ny.gov for further information on the Internet.

Coats can be picked up at the Corona- Elmhurst Center for Economic Development, 39-13 104th St., Corona, between the hours of noon and 5 p.m. for the entire week or as long as supplies last. For more information about the coat drive, call 718-205-1473.