In the second part in a one-two punch of weather events over the past month, the remnants of Hurricane Ida pummeled New York City-area residents with a deluge of rain and high winds that flooded and halted subways, grounded flights and resulted in at least 20 deaths.
Since many downstate members were still struggling to recover from Tropical Storm Henri when Hurricane Ida hit, the statewide union is again encouraging members to consider donating to the NYSUT Disaster Relief Fund, the union’s 501(c) 3 charitable organization.
“I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again, the generosity of NYSUT members is unmatched,” said NYSUT Secretary Treasurer, J. Philippe Abraham whose office overseas the NYSUT Disaster Relief Fund. “As our downstate brothers and sisters struggle to recover from the aftermath of this storm, I encourage all who are able, to lend a helping hand.”
Funded through voluntary donations, the NYSUT Disaster Relief Fund provides relief for eligible losses stemming from man-made occurrences, such as an accidental house fire; natural disasters, such as weather-related storm damage; and federally declared qualified disasters such as flooding.
Don’t forget about the renewed tax incentives for charitable giving. For the 2021 calendar year, the CARES act extends charitable income tax deductions for single and married filers. The charitable income tax deduction for cash gifts to 501(c)3 charitable organizations is $300 for single filers and $600 for married couples filing jointly, regardless of whether you itemize deductions or take the standard deduction.
You can make a donation online, or make a check payable to "NYSUT Disaster Relief Fund" and mail to: NYSUT Headquarters, Attn: Disaster Relief, 800 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, New York 12110. NYSUT assumes 100 percent of the administrative costs associated with the NYSUT Disaster Relief Fund.