Senator Flanagan Secures Funding To Support Long Island Cares

Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan (2^nd Senate District) announced that he has secured a state grant to assist Long Island Cares continue its ability to help Long Islanders in need.  The funding secured by Senator Flanagan will help offset the cost of the purchase of a new mobile pantry vehicle that will be used to reach homebound individuals in both Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

The new vehicle will enable Long Island’s Regional Food Bank to expand home delivery of items to high-risk residents in need, including senior citizens, disabled veterans, and persons diagnosed with debilitating medical conditions that make it impossible for them to travel to access their local food pantry.  Through this service, the not-for-profit delivers nonperishable food, personal care products, household supplies and pet food.

The program was launched in 2009 and to date has distributed approximately 250,000 pounds of items.  In 2017 alone, it supported 136 homebound individuals and the new mobile unit will enable the program to reach even more homebound individuals for many years.

Each recipient of assistance is assessed for eligibility and the potential need for ongoing social services with deliveries made on a biweekly basis.  Additionally, the program does not utilize a waiting list and there is no charge to any of the individuals that are assisted.

A unique aspect of the program is that it wholly undertaken by dedicated volunteers who both process and deliver orders.  These selfless men and women also take the time to cultivate relationships and provide companionship to homebound individuals.

“Our mobile pantry aims to keep seniors living independently in their home.  Senator Flanagan understands the importance of empowering elderly Long Islanders, and by supporting our mission and this mobile pantry, we will continue to ensure seniors receive access to nutritious foods, that they can prepare safely and enjoy in the comfort of their own home.  Long Island Cares is grateful for the ongoing support of Senator Flanagan.  Through his dedicated efforts and tireless advocacy, Long Island Cares can continue to provide support while maintaining independence to seniors on LI,” said Long Island Cares Chief Program Officer Jessica Rosati, Ph.D.

“It is truly my pleasure to assist the dedicated folks of Long Island Cares in their efforts to help Long Islanders in need.  This is a wonderful program that brings assistance and hope to those who are unable to travel.  Thanks to all those who volunteer to help with the mobile pantry and who show those in need that they are not alone,” stated Senator Flanagan.

For more information on the innovative programs and services of Long Island Cares, residents can check www.licares.org or call 631-582-3663.