A number of volunteers have set up collection points in Tirana to gather items to be sent to those who have lost their homes, are unable to go home, or who are sleeping outside following yesterday’s devastating earthquake.
Items that are needed include warm children’s clothes, blankets, food for children and babies, food that can be consumed without needing to be cooked, diapers, water, fruit juice, new underwear for all ages, wet wipes, and hygiene products including wet wipes, mouthwash, and deodorant. Clothing items such as coats, hats, scarves, and socks for all ages are appreciated as temperatures are expected to drop below 10 degrees Celsius this evening.
There is currently three main drop off points in the city; Mother Teresa Square coordinated by Fundjava Ndryshe and Nisma Thurrje, the Orthodox Church near Skanderbeg Square, and the Alliance For The Protection Of The National Theatre at the National Theatre in the centre of Tirana.
All three organisations have worked solidly overnight to collect, sort, and pack up items to be sent to those in need in Durres, Thumane, Kruje and other affected areas. Dozens of truckloads of items have been sent already, but there is a continual demand for more as citizens prepare for another night outside.
In Kosovo’s capital Prishtina volunteers have also set up a major collection point in the central square Zahir Pajaziti, and dozens of truckload have already been delivered to victims in Albania.
Collection points will be open until late over the coming days and residents are urged to donate what they can to help and support those in need.
