Senator Martins Joins Elmont Dad's Club for Thanksgiving Food Drive

An incredible food drive effort by families and concerned members of the Elmont community, spearheaded by the Elmont Dad's Club, has resulted in hundreds of pounds of food being donated to needy families through Island Harvest. The food drive effort, this past Saturday, was a tremendous success and celebrated by community members and students gathered in the gymnasium of the Gotham Avenue School. State Senator Jack Martins contributed to the effort and packed food boxes with students from Covert Avenue, Clara Carlson, Gotham Avenue, Dutch Broadway, Stewart Manor and Alden Terrace Schools.

"When I walked into the gym at Gotham Avenue School I couldn't believe my eyes," said Senator Martins adding, "students, cub scouts, parents, Dad's Club members, Elmont Firefighters and community members were working shoulder to shoulder for needy families. I couldn't be more proud. This is what makes Elmont so special."

Senator Martins joined School Trustees Michael Jaime, Patrick Emeagwali, Anthony Maffea and Superintendent Al Harper in packing boxes with students and parents. Tables lined the Gotham gymnasium where food was brought in by a steady stream of students who donated canned goods, cereals, rice, pastas and much more. Children walked with boxes down the line of tables and packed food for needy families under the supervision of Dad's Club members who busily worked to pack the care packages for Island Harvest.

"I want to personally thank the Dad's Club, students, Elmont Fire Department and all the volunteers for putting this annual event together. It makes a difference. The impact you are having on families means so much during the holidays," said Senator Martins.