Long Island Cares
Long Island Cares, founded in 1980 by Harry Chapin, distributes over ten million pounds of food annually and serves nearly 400 member agencies in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.
History
Long Island Cares was founded in 1980 by singer-songwriter and activist Harry Chapin. The organization was established with the mission to both provide food for those in need and address the underlying causes of hunger and food insecurity. Over the years, Long Island Cares has grown to become a critical resource for the community, maintaining a main office and warehouse in Hauppauge with five additional satellite offices.
Services
Long Island Cares provides a comprehensive array of services to combat hunger and food insecurity. These services include the First Stop Food Pantries, Gus’ Retail Rescue Program, and Baxter’s Pet Pantry, which collectively distribute more than ten million pounds of food and supplies annually. Additionally, the organization runs educational programs like New Paths to Achievement and Just Say Yes to Fruits and Vegetables, and coordinates youth-based initiatives such as a Children's Mobile Breakfast Food Truck and Kids Cafe.
Member Agencies
Long Island Cares serves nearly 400 member agencies across Nassau and Suffolk Counties. These agencies include local food pantries, soup kitchens, and other community-based organizations that work collaboratively to reach individuals and families experiencing hunger and food insecurity. Through these partnerships, Long Island Cares ensures a wide distribution of resources and support throughout the community.
Advocacy Efforts
In addition to providing food and supplies, Long Island Cares engages in advocacy efforts aimed at addressing the root causes of hunger and food insecurity. The organization works on various fronts to influence legislation and policies that impact food access and poverty, and collaborates with different stakeholders to drive systemic change.
Programs and Initiatives
Long Island Cares runs a variety of programs and initiatives designed to support different segments of the population. These include educational initiatives like New Paths to Achievement and Just Say Yes to Fruits and Vegetables, youth programs such as the Children's Mobile Breakfast Food Truck and Kids Cafe, and special programs like the Matching Gift Program, which allows donations to be doubled by participating companies. Each of these programs aims to provide immediate relief while also promoting long-term solutions to hunger and food insecurity.