NY launches Puerto Rico relief effort

NEW YORK (FOX5NY) - New York State is launching a relief-and-recovery effort to help the people of hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the program on Sunday along with actress and singer Jennifer Lopez.

The statewide collection of supplies and money will go to help the U.S. territory that was seriously damaged by Hurricane Maria.

JetBlue has committed $1 million to transport relief supplies.

"It's very hard to get everything there, as we're seeing now — trying to get things on planes and trying to get the logistics set up on the ground," Cuomo said.

Lopez announced at a Sunday news conference kicking off the efforts that she was donating $1 million from her Las Vegas show.

New Yorkers are being asked to volunteer, make a monetary donation, or drop off supplies. Individual and corporate contributions can be made online by visiting nycommunitytrust.org.

People are asked to donate the following items: Batteries, flashlights, portable lanterns, diapers, baby wipes, cases of water, and feminine hygiene products. All items must be completely unopened and packaged.

Drop-off spots in New York City:

Jacob K. Javits Center, 655 West 34th Street, Manhattan

Shirley A. Chisholm State Office Building, 55 Hanson Place, Brooklyn

Jamaica Street Armory, 93-05 168th Street, Queens

Roberto Clemente State Park, 301 West Tremont Avenue, Bronx