More than a year since Hurricane Irene caused damage throughoutthe Caribbean and up the East Coast, some small businesses arestill struggling to get back to normal.

The $2.2 billion Affinity Federal Credit Union said it is looking to help byoffering gift cards and certificates as part of a raffle to supportits business members who are just now reopening or are in need ofsupport to get their business back on track.

The Basking Ridge, N.J.-based credit union will be focusing onthe following local businesses:

• Faith & Begora (Irish gift shop)
• Denville Dairy (ice cream, cakes, specialty items)
• Thatcher McGhee's (Irish food restaurant and pub)
• Sergio & Co. Italian Specialties (Deli items and otherItalian gourmet items)
• Denville Seafood (all types of seafood items)
• Sweet Expressions (candy store)
• Write-On (personalized furniture, pillows, and other homeaccessories; includes personalized children's items)
• Tana Creations (jewelry, jewelry repair andaccessories)
• Dash of Thyme (gourmet food products, gifts, candles, andcustom gift baskets)
• Do it Best Hardware (hardware store)

“Although more than a year has passed since hurricane Irene,many of our small, local businesses continue to feel the effects,” said AnnGardner, business development officer for Affinity. “This is ourway of showing our support and bringing attention to their plightin an effort to help them get back on their feet.”

Affinity's participation will be a part of the St. Francis Fair,which will take place Saturday in Denville, N.J.

Hurricane Irene caused at least 56 deaths and an estimated$15.6 billion in damage in August 2011, according to the NationalHurricane Center. The Category 3 storm hit several islands in theCaribbean and impacted several states including Connecticut, NewJersey, New York and North Carolina.