Italian-Americans in the Garden State are vowing to provide assistance to victims of the powerful earthquake that struck central Italy.

Officials say the death toll of the quake has risen to at least 207 people. Thousands have been left homeless and up to 15,000 buildings were either damaged or destroyed.

At Il Panino, an Italian deli, the owner says she is thinking about starting a collection box that will go toward helping those affected by the earthquake.

The Fairfield branch of UNICO National, the largest Italian-American service organization in the country, is stepping up with fundraising efforts as well. It is asking everyone for assistance. The organization has a history of providing financial help to victims of disasters in Italy.

"From our last relief effort, when the earthquake hit there in 1980, I believe?we did raise quite a bit of money, to the tune of a half a million dollars,? Sal Benvenuti, of UNICO National, says.

The organization is accepting donations.

UNICO