The Office of New York City Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. collects desperately needed supplies to aid victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Photo Credit: Marla S. Maritzer

Over the last month, City employees, local businesses and individuals have dropped off boxes of donations to be sent to the Gulf Coast .

"We asked New Yorkers to pitch in and help those in need, and they stepped up to the plate," Thompson said. "I am moved by the outpouring of concern for those who've been devastated by these two tragic incidents, and left homeless, injured and without basic necessities."

The Comptroller's Office collected over 160 boxes with the help of donations from New York State Assemblyman Herman D. Farrell, Jr.'s office. Of the 160 boxes, 88 were sent to the Convoy of Hope in Louisiana, a 501( c ) (3) nonprofit organization that provides disaster relief and sponsors outreach to those in need. The goods were transported free of charge by jetBlue Airways. The remaining boxes of supplies will be given to local relief efforts in the City for Gulf Coast evacuees being relocated to New York .