SERINO AND MOLINARO LAUNCH DONATION DRIVE TO SUPPORT CHILDCARE PROVIDERS

HYDE PARK, NY – NYS Senator Sue Serino and Dutchess County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro today announced a donation drive to support those caring for the children of first responders, healthcare providers, and essential workers as part of an expansion of the County’s ongoing “Dutchess Responds” initiative. In partnership with the Child Care Council of Dutchess and Putnam, Inc., donated items such as paper towels, disinfecting wipes, and masks will be delivered to area childcare providers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In the midst of this current crisis, our childcare facilities are going above and beyond to care for the children of those on the front lines,” said Senator Serino. “The last thing they should have to worry about is where to find the supplies they need to maintain safe and healthy facilities. Our community comes together in incredible ways when needed most, and this is an opportunity to help support those who are providing a critical service to so many of our essential workers.”

Dutchess County Government has been assisting local childcare providers with emergency supply needs through its Central Services Division, including providing paper towels, cleaning supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE). However, there continues to be need for these and other supplies at local childcare centers.   

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “Since Coronavirus first touched Dutchess County in March, numerous sectors of our community—individuals, organizations and businesses—have donated resources and supplies to show how #DutchessResponds during difficult times like these. Such generosity exemplifies the sense of community that makes our county an example for the nation, and Dutchess County Government is proud to have coordinated delivery of these critical resources to a variety of essential businesses, from hospitals to childcare providers. We appreciate the assistance of Senator Serino and the Child Care Council of Dutchess and Putnam in ensuring these life-saving products reach the heroes who care for our future generation.”

Jeanne Wagner, Executive Director of the Child Care Council of Dutchess and Putnam, Inc., said, “Childcare workers are on the front line every day, caring for children so parents can perform their essential jobs. Let’s make sure the childcare workers have the necessary supplies to keep the children and themselves well and safe!”

The Child Care Council is most in need of:

• adult-sized face masks
• disinfecting wipes
• paper towels
• gloves
• bleach
• toilet paper

Donations can be dropped off, by appointment only, at the Child Care Council of Dutchess and Putnam, Inc.’s office, located at 301 Manchester Road in Poughkeepsie. Individuals should call the office at 845-473-4141 ext. 210 to schedule a drop-off time.

For more information regarding the donation drive, residents can call the Dutchess County Coronavirus Hotline at 845-486-3555 and choose option 8 or email Senator Serino’s office at serino@nysenate.gov. Those interested in donating, but unable to deliver supplies, should call the hotline or email Senator Serino’s office to arrange to have donations picked up.

Dutchess County Government continues to provide residents the most current information on its COVID-19 Community Impact Dashboard, as well as guidance on its website, dutchessny.gov/coronavirus, its Coronavirus hotline, (845) 486-3555, and its Facebook and Twitter accounts.