4/07/2010: Haitian Heritage Night

New York State Senator Shirley L. Huntley (2nd from Right) Councilman Leroy Comrie (3rd from Right) along with (from right to left) Patrick Lespinasse (Deputy Director for Public Policy and External Affairs for Verizon, Eslsle Accillen (Executive Director Of Haitian Americans United for Progress) and Fuljena Henri (PR and Media Relations liaison for Haitian Americans United for Progress) all received the “New York Mets Spirit Award” at CITI Field on Wednesday April 7, 2010 for their ongoing efforts to assist with the Haitian Earthquake Relief Effort. This is a very special award for Senator Huntley because of the way her community came together to help the people of Haiti. In the wake of the devastating earthquake that had befallen Haiti on January 12, 2010, Senator Huntley worked closely with the Haitian American United for Progress (HAUP) to coordinate efforts which would assist those in need here and in Haiti. HAUP has secured an agreement with the New York Mets to co-host Haitian Heritage Night during the second home game of every season, beginning this year, on April 7th, 2010. The New York Mets donated nearly 900 tickets to the organization, which they were able to sell. The proceeds will go towards HAUP’s local efforts to provide assistance to Haitians in the Unites States affected by the quake as well as two charities operating in Haiti. HAUP recognized five individuals to be honored on the field prior to the game. Senator Huntley was chosen by the organization as a recipient because of her dedication to the cause. Humanitarian efforts continue to this day, and Senator Huntley would like to thank everyone who helped in this tragic event.