Senator Rhoads Hosts 3rd Annual Freedom Food Drive

By Blake Jackson

Senator Steve Rhoads united the community for his 3rd Annual Freedom Food Drive, held on Saturday, June 28, outside the ShopRite on Hempstead Turnpike in Hicksville.

The event gathered over 800 pounds of food to benefit the Food Pantry at Our Lady of Mercy, thanks to the generosity of local residents, civic groups, and Scout troops.

“This event is about more than just food it’s about freedom, community, and compassion,” said Senator Steve Rhoads. “As we celebrate our independence, we also recognize the importance of looking out for one another. I’m incredibly proud of our community for showing up, giving back, and helping ensure no family goes hungry this summer.”

The drive was organized in partnership with Island Harvest, a leading hunger-relief organization on Long Island. They supported the event by coordinating logistics and facilitating the donation process.

“Senator Steve Rhoads has been a champion in the fight against hunger on Long Island and across New York State,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, President & CEO of Island Harvest Food Bank. “Senator Rhoads’ ‘Freedom Food Drive,’ held annually around Independence Day is one of the highlight food drive events of the summer and we thank him and his staff for their continuous support.”

All donations will directly stock the shelves at the Our Lady of Mercy Food Pantry, which provides critical food assistance to hundreds of local families each month.

“Food is one of the few things that has the power to bring people together, it is more than just sustenance, it’s Hope and Love. Our Lady of Mercy Food Pantry’s shelves overflow with the over 800 pounds of food collected during the Senator Rhoads Freedom Food Drive at the Bethpage ShopRite," said Genny Feliciano with Our Lady of Mercy Parish Services.

"The Senator’s dynamic team of interns, volunteers, and very generous community who purchased just one or two additional items for donation made a difference in the lives of our neighbors this summer. On behalf of our neighbors in need, thank you!.”

Senator Rhoads aims to continue this annual tradition, inspiring community support and unity each year.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-fatcamera