Tewksbury Twp. charity focuses on Chile earthquake recovery

TEWKSBURY TWP. — Communities 8.8 is a nonprofit that was formed in direct response to the devastating 8.8 earthquake that struck the country of Chile on Feb. 27.
This organization was created in March by Tewksbury residents Claudia Bigdelle, Dick Thomas and Mary Ruffine.

Claudia Bigdelle, a recent U.S. citizen, was born and raised in Chile. She was inspired by the outpouring of support she found within her local community.

Communities 8.8 is providing aid to the rebuilding efforts within Chile, focusing its support in rural villages. The organization also assists with redevelopment by providing grants to small business owners within affected communities. Communities 8.8 has also joined forces with other nonprofits whose work is focused on a similar mission within Chile.

During the month of June, Tewksbury Fine Wines in Oldwick will be supporting Communities 8.8 in its relief work. Owner Andrea Maranca will donate a percentage of its sales of all Chilean wines to the organization. Cases of Chilean wines will see 15% of its profits go directly to the organization; individual bottles will have 5% of its sales support the group.

For more about the group, contact Bigdelle at claudiabigdelle@yahoo.com.