In a powerful display of unity and commitment to community service, Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson Station), Assemblyman Keith Brown (R-Northport), Assemblyman Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park), Assemblyman Ari Brown (R-Cedarhurst), and Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti (D-Manorhaven) recently took part in the Assembly Assemble Day at Island Harvest. The event, held at Island Harvest’s headquarters, saw the Assembly members working side by side with staff and volunteers to package food and supplies for distribution to those in need.
The Assembly members rolled up their sleeves and got to work, packing boxes with essential food items and supplies. Their efforts were part of a broader initiative to support Island Harvest’s mission of ending hunger and reducing food waste across Long Island.
By participating in this hands-on event, the Assembly members not only contributed directly to the cause but also helped raise awareness of the ongoing issue of food insecurity in their communities.
“Island Harvest’s dedication to ending hunger and reducing food waste, especially through their expanded facility in Melville made possible by the Hunger Capital Campaign, resonated with us,” Assemblyman Flood remarked. “We are proud to support their mission and stand by their impactful work. Together, we are making a difference!”.
Celebrating its thirtieth year helping the community, Island Harvest has grown into one of Long Island’s leading hunger-relief organizations. Its mission is to end hunger and reduce food waste through efficient food collection, distribution, and outreach efforts. The organization works with a network of food donors, volunteers, and partner agencies to provide food and other essentials to thousands of Long Islanders facing food insecurity.
Island Harvest’s operations are vast, encompassing food rescue from local grocery stores, farms, and food manufacturers, as well as large-scale food drives and fundraisers. The organization also plays a crucial role in educating the community about hunger issues and advocating for policies that support food access and sustainability.
Assemblymembers Flood, Brown, Durso, Brown, and Sillitti’s participation in Assembly Assemble Day at Island Harvest highlights the importance of local leaders actively engaging with their communities. Their involvement not only aids in the immediate task of food distribution but also underscores the broader commitment to tackling food insecurity on Long Island.
“Each year, members of the Long Island Assembly Delegation come together to help others and get to work,” said Assemblyman Durso. “As we packed boxes of food that will be distributed to seniors in need, we are reminded that this is not just a problem senior citizens face, it’s a problem all across our Island for so many.”
Food insecurity remains a persistent issue on Long Island, affecting individuals and families from all walks of life. Organizations like Island Harvest are critical in addressing this challenge, providing not just food, but hope and dignity to those they serve. Events like Assembly Assemble Day serve as a reminder of the power of collective action and the role that elected officials can play in supporting and amplifying the efforts of local organizations.
As the day concluded, the Assembly members expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to contribute and pledged to continue supporting Island Harvest’s mission both through legislative efforts and future volunteer work. Their participation was a testament to the impact that can be made when leaders step out of their offices and into their communities, ready to serve.
