EAST BRUNSWICK Aiming to provide lighting for citizens affected by Hurricane Maria, Cub Scout Luke Zorn has created the “Lights For Puerto Rico” project.
“I heard on the news what happened to Puerto Rico. I could not believe the island was wiped out and [that] they would not have power for at least four to five months. Nobody likes to be in the dark and I knew I had to find a way to help them,” Luke said.
The donations will go to residents in the town of Dorado where relief aid may not reach, according to Caribel Lopez-Zorn, Luke’s mother, who is also the assistant den leader for Arrow of Light Cub Scout Pack 132 in East Brunswick.
“We have family there and vacation about once a year since we have a timeshare. It is one of [Luke’s] favorite places to visit. The next day after the hurricane [Luke] told me he had to do something fast to help. He called the store manager and our local supermarket and a few hours later the first box was delivered,” Lopez-Zorn said.
Ten-year-old Luke began setting up donation boxes throughout the area on Sept. 21, asking for donations of flashlights, batteries and candles. Lightbulbs will not be accepted.
Locations include Acme, Ryders Lane Milltown; inside Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 568 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick; the East Brunswick Baseball/Softball complex near the snack bar, 367 Dunhams Corner Road, East Brunswick; St. Bartholomew Church, 470 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick; and Warnsdorfer Elementary School, 9 Hardenburg Lane, East Brunswick.
“I’m hoping to collect 100 flashlights, 50 packs of batteries and 150 candles. I have already made special plastic containers so the candles won’t melt. My goal is to try and help them while they have no power so they can start getting their life back on track,” Luke said.
“Each box will be at each location for at least two weeks. We are waiting for notification when Dorado can accept packages,” Lopez-Zorn said.
“I’m very proud and honored to be his mother. I love the compassionate side he has for all human beings. His generosity and willingness to help warms my heart.”
Contact Vashti Harris at vharris@newspapermediagroup.com.
