Humanitarian Drive For Ukraine Being Held In Farmingdale

FARMINGDALE, NY — Joseph Benincasa, a State Farm agent in Farmingdale, is collecting donations of goods to help Ukrainians.

The items will be delivered and dispersed to Ukrainian charity relief organizations that will distribute the packages throughout Ukraine, according to the news release.

“We are all shocked, saddened and horrified by the ongoing situation unfolding in Ukraine," Benincasa stated via news release. "Our agency is accepting needed humanitarian supplies to assist the Ukrainian community."

Benincasa said he will ensure the collected items are delivered through an established shipping company.

Items needed include Tylenol, Aspirin, Acetaminophen, Bayer, Diphenhydramine, Benadryl, Band-aids, abdominal bandages, Burn Aid, butterfly strips, saline eye drops, medical adhesive tape, tweezers, safety pins, triple antibiotic ointment, caffeine pills, gauze, white petroleum jelly, antiseptic wipes, gloves, CPR masks, and backpacks.

Donations can be dropped off at Benincasa's office at 54 Willow Park Center, Farmingdale, until March 31.

"My staff and I will personally deliver all donations directly to the shipping warehouse in New Jersey and are happy to cover the shipping costs," Benincasa said. "We know we are surrounded by very generous, thoughtful people in the Farmingdale area. Please consider joining us during this difficult time."

Nearly 3 million Ukrainians have fled their home country due to the Russian invasion, according to the United Nations.