August 7, 2018
Dear Editor,
As the summer comes to an end, gearing up for the new school year is a cost that many families are not in the position to pay for, as housing and food expenses take a higher priority. What brings hope is the giving spirit of so many residents throughout Long Island who have come together for the 2018 Scott Martella Supplies for our Students Drive, organized by the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless and Long Island Cares. The goal of the effort has been to provide 4,000 backpacks and other supplies to homeless and at-risk children. My legislative summer interns took the initiative to participate in the drive and coordinated a successful day last week, at Value Drugs in Greenlawn, where they collected two moving boxes full of supplies.
The event’s namesake, Scott Martella, dedicated his career to serving the public and had hopes of launching a drive for local families in need, before he died tragically in August of 2016. He valued education highly, and in his heart knew that providing all students with necessary supplies to start their school year helps to ensure that they have a chance at academic success. This community drive honors Scott’s legacy perfectly.
Although the supply drive honoring Scott has come to a close, and the participating agencies are busy preparing the backpacks to be distributed to the children, my office will continue to be a drop-off location for school items. All donations will be given to youth organizations who work with local families in need.
For those of us who have the means, let’s help guard any child from beginning the academic year disadvantaged. To contribute, please drop off any new school items at my legislative office, located at 15 Park Circle, Suite 209, Centerport, by Friday, August 31st. Thank you for your generosity.
Sincerely,
Dr. William R. Spencer
Suffolk County Legislator
18th Legislative District
