'Tamale Lady' Loses 7 In Earthquake, North Forkers Help

MATTITUCK, NY — North Forkers are casting a wide net of compassion as they seek to help a woman who lost everything in the earthquake that devastated Mexico City in September.

Stephanie Villani, who lives in Mattituck and sells fish with her husband in New York City through the GrowNYC Greenmarket program, something they have done since 1988, has formed lifelong bonds with the others who set up and offer their wares for sale.

One of those women, Betty, saw her world crumble in the aftermath of the quake, Villani said.

A GoFundMe, "Betty Of Union Square NYC" has been created, Villani, said, to help "our friend Betty, the Union Square tamale lady, who suffered the loss of 7 members of her family in the earthquake in Mexico City in September. Her aunt, uncle, and their 5 children sadly lost their lives. We'd like to help Betty raise some money to pay for funeral expenses. She is a single mother raising two sons and has been serving us with a smile for over 10 years with her Mexican specialties.Please help with any amount that you can spare."

Villani said she's known Betty for more than 10 years.

"All the farmers in the market buy tamales and other Mexican specialties from her. We all were so upset when we found out about the loss of her family members."

To donate, click here.

Patch photo courtesy GoFundMe.