Saturday, November 19, 2022: Suffolk County Legislator Manuel Esteban, and his staff, helped Manna Ministries of East Northport prepare and distribute 90 Thanksgiving food and supply boxes, including turkeys.
Legislator Esteban secured donation for 60 of the turkeys and took great pleasure in meeting and speaking with local residents as he personally handed them. Esteban said "many of the people we served here today have multiple jobs, yet with rising housing, food, and overall price increases struggle to make ends meet. When you see so many working poor line up seeking help for food and supplies it is evident that our social contract is broken and we have to do more to help people and find lasting solutions."
When asked that motivated him to get involved like this he stated: "I spend many hours walking, talking, and getting to know the neighborhoods I serve, the small business, the families. So many of them share with me their complex life situations, and the tremendous financial hardships they live under. Many are lonely with no one to talk with. My being out here in the food distribution is not just about giving food and supplies, but more so of being a friend, and raising awareness. Letting them know I truly care and understand what they are experiencing, because I too have overcome similar difficulties."
Manna Ministries has a very active food panty that also provides many with food, clothing and supplies. It is headed by Dr. Lynn Lucas, Senior Pastor, who with many volunteers have tirelessly helped thousands year after year. Legislator Esteban states "When I meet Manna Ministries and saw not just how much they give, but the friendliness, kindness and love they show to the people who come for help I knew I wanted to keep working with them."
"Among our country clubs, manicured lawns and neighborhoods there is great poverty in Huntington. With a great shortage of housing, these working poor need our help and advocacy too, but more so first our friendship and compassion." Said Legislator Esteban.