Island Harvest has received a $75,000 grant for its Operation: HOPE, a mobile program of food, supplies and services for veteran communities.
Assemblyman Steve Stern, D – Huntington, said that he was able to secure the funding for at-risk Long Island veterans
“As a member of the New York State Assembly Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, it is my privilege to work with and for the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much to protect our great nation and for their families,” Stern said. “That’s why I am so proud to announce I was able to secure funding for at-risk veterans on Long Island to overcome the challenges and exceptional obstacles they may face when readjusting to civilian life.”
In addition, Operation: HOPE volunteers and staff provide information and referrals to link veterans and military families with important benefits and services. The funding from Assemblyman Stern’s grant will enable Island Harvest to expand services to an additional 100 veterans per week.
“On behalf of Long Island’s veterans facing food insecurity and economic hardships, we thank Assemblyman Stern for his efforts in securing this much-needed funding,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, president & CEO, Island Harvest Food Bank. “The funds will allow us to expand our Operation: HOPE program to help an additional 100 veterans by providing essential food support and services to those who dutifully served our nation but now need assistance.”
“The veterans of Suffolk County are fortunate to have exceptional partners in the community who are committed to serving them,” said Thomas Ronayne, director of the Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency. “Island Harvest and Assemblyman Steve Stern are two examples of such partners.”