Queens elected officials and ethnic organizations are hailing the city’s relief mission to India, which has been ravaged in recent weeks with a surge in COVID-19 deaths.
While the number of infections have declined in the past week, hospitals across the country are still overwhelmed.
“Just over a year ago, New York City was at the center of the pandemic,” Mayor Bill de Basio said. “Now it is our turn to step up and help India in its moment of crisis.”
The city will tap into its stockpile and send COVID-19 test kits, swabs, ventilators, BiPap machines, pulse oximeters and other medical supplies.
“I have underscored the need for the United States to provide assistance to India during this difficult time, and I support this latest effort by New York City as well,” Congresswoman Grace Meng said. “India is our dear friend and ally and we must continue to be there for its people in their urgent time of need.”
