By Blake Jackson
On June 3, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads, joined by fellow Long Island Senators including Senator Dean Murray and a group of legislative interns, participated in the Annual Senate Farm Day of Action held at Island Harvest’s Healthy Harvest Farm in Brentwood.
This yearly event, led by Senator Rhoads, unites Long Island lawmakers for a day dedicated to hands-on service and promoting sustainability.
Partnering with Island Harvest a leading hunger relief organization in the region the group harvested, cleaned, dried, and packaged around 150 pounds of fresh lettuce. The produce was swiftly distributed through Island Harvest’s food bank and reached local dinner tables within 24 hours.
“This is what taking action for sustainability looks like boots on the ground, sleeves rolled up, and a shared commitment to feeding our neighbors,” said Senator Rhoads. “It was a fun, educational, and incredibly rewarding day.”
Attendees got an inside look at the impressive work of Island Harvest’s Healthy Harvest Farm, which is operated by a single staff member, Cassidy, and supported by a dedicated volunteer team. Cassidy played a key role in guiding the group through the farming activities with grace and expertise.
“Hunger is a serious issue on Long Island, with food insecurity rising nearly 10% from 2022 to 2023 now affecting one in twelve residents, or approximately 240,470 people, including 44,520 children,” Senator Rhoads noted. “Initiatives like this remind us of our region’s rich agricultural heritage and the vital role local food banks play in addressing hunger.”
Rhoads expressed deep appreciation to Cassidy, Island Harvest President & CEO Randi Shubin Dresner, and the entire team for their leadership and ongoing commitment to ending hunger.
“Receiving a behind-the-scenes look into how this major food bank operates and participating in the process of bringing fresh produce to families’ kitchen tables was truly amazing, and I would encourage others to do the same. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors,” said State Senator Dean Murray (District 3).
“This is the power of community,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, president & CEO of Island Harvest Food Bank “our elected officials and their teams coming out and doing the work to help feed our neighbors in need. Sens. Steve Rhoads and Dean Murray have been champions of Island Harvest in Albany, and we cannot thank them enough for their work at the farm.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fatcamera
Categories: New York, Government & Policy