Mineola-based Island Harvest Food Bank announced the official start of its annual Turkey and Trimmings Collection Campaign, which runs through December. The organization teamed up with Stop & Shop, Bethpage Federal Credit Union and other corporate sponsors to help those struggling with hunger enjoy a traditional holiday-style meal.
“Unfortunately for more than 316,000 people on Long Island, facing hunger every day, the joy and cheer of the holiday season are often replaced with worry and sadness,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, president and CEO of Island Harvest. “Hunger doesn’t take a holiday and we once again call upon the generosity of the community to help their neighbors in need enjoy a warm holiday meal.”
Stop & Shop customers can purchase a pre-packaged box with all of the trimmings necessary for a typical holiday-style dinner (except the turkey). The box will then be donated to Island Harvest to be distributed to local families via a network of 570 community-based organizations in Nassau and Suffolk counties. In addition, various McDonald’s and Panera Bread locations throughout Long Island are accepting donations of non-perishables to benefit the Turkey and Trimmings Collection Campaign.
“Stop & Shop is pleased to be of assistance to Island Harvest, which provides for those in need during the holiday season,” said Arlene Putterman, director, public relations and special events at Stop & Shop NY Metro Division.
Bethpage Federal Credit Union hosted its sixth annual Turkey Drive on Tuesday, Nov. 18.
“The Bethpage Turkey Drive has grown to become the largest on-site food drive on Long Island, thanks to the countless community residents who come out each holiday season to help their neighbors in need,” said Linda Armyn, senior vice president, Bethpage Federal Credit Union.
Those interested in helping Island Harvest this holiday season may wish to consider hosting a food drive or donating food and/or funds. Island Harvest will accept turkeys, supermarket turkey coupons, supermarket gift cards and non-perishable food products. Visit www.islandharvest.org to learn how you can help fight hunger on Long Island.
