The Great American Jewelry Store in Massapequa Park, N.Y., is offering a safe haven for customers affected by Hurricane Sandy.

“As we speak, there is a meeting going on to create a disaster relief promotion in our store,” says owner Larry Chariton.

The Massapequa community, located on the south shore of Long Island, was greatly affected by the storm. Chariton describes a scene of washed-up boats, fallen trees, damaged homes, and broken electric lines.

While some businesses were criticized for their Hurricane-inspired sales, Chariton decided to take a different route. “This is not a time where people are looking for jewelry,” he says. “They’re just looking for help.”

Larry and his wife, Laurie, are welcoming the close-knit community to their store, offering free food and coffee, Internet access, and telephones. The shopping center where the store is located is one of the only areas in town with working electricity.

“Our customers are always there for us, and now it’s our time to be there for them,” Chariton says.

JCK