Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (R,C,I,Ref-Smithtown) is delighted to announce his recent Summer Food Drive to End Hunger was very successful because of the kindness from residents within his Assembly district. Donations made by the public resulted in 1,332 pounds of food, which will be distributed to those in need by Long Island Cares – The Harry Chapin Food Bank.

“Thank you to each and every one who donated to support the efforts of Long Island Cares. Together we are helping to feed hungry families on Long Island,” said Fitzpatrick. “Food insecurity is a year-long concern, especially during the summers when children are home from school on break, as schools are often a source of free or reduced-cost meals for students in need. So, thank you to everyone who helped. It really does make a difference when we can band together to do some good.”

“During a time when food drive donations are historically low, The Summer Food Drive to End Hunger serves as a significant tool in meeting our vision of a hunger-free Long Island. This series of food drives helps us to put more food on the tables of our friends and neighbors facing food insecurity. The food drive sponsored by Assemblyman Michael J. Fitzpatrick on Saturday, July 8, 2017 resulted in an unprecedented 1,332 pounds of food for the needy. We are very grateful to Assemblyman Michael J. Fitzpatrick for his participation and recognizing the truth of hunger on Long Island, and for his decision to stand and act on behalf of those in need,” said William Gonyou, Community Events and Food Drive Manager of Long Island Cares.

Fitzpatrick held the summer food drive to help emphasize the year-round need for support of families facing food insecurity. Summertime can be particularly difficult for these families as children who qualify are able to receive free or reduced breakfasts and lunches, which help ensure children are eating. During the school break, such programs are not available to children.

In 2010, the Hunger in America Report noted that 75 percent of Long Island families being served by emergency food services like the food bank are facing food insecurity. Individuals or families facing food insecurity have limited and uncertain access to nutritionally adequate foods. Those facing food insecurity are sometimes forced to make choices to cut back on meals or food portions because of limited financial means and uncertainty of when or where their next meal may come. Furthermore, hunger disproportionately impacts households of single mothers and children.