On January 21st 2025, Councilmembers Cyndi McNamara and Michael Iasilli will kick off a collection drive for Heart of the Hamptons (HOH). The Town will have a collection box located in the entrance of Town Hall to help aid HOH in their efforts to protect vulnerable communities during the winter months.
Throughout the winter, many families in Southampton face significant insecurity. Due to the high cost of living and rise in utility costs, many financially vulnerable populations face obstacles obtaining food and clothing. According to Global Citizen, “For low-income people in the United States and globally, energy costs are rising at a higher and faster rate than overall household incomes. Increased cost of heating combined with the health and safety consequences of cold weather have significant and potentially deadly consequences for those unable to access appropriate shelter.”
Therefore, the Town of Southampton will collect items of need including coats (new and used) and food items, such as non-perishables (pasta, canned goods, cereal, etc.), and diapers, especially sizes 4, 5 and 6. From January 21sth to February 28th, residents can provide a donation between 8:30 AM and 4 PM, Monday through Friday. All collected items will then be donated to Heart of the Hamptons’ Assistance Program, which helps aid families facing financial hardship and food insecurity.
“We must address the continued social and economic challenges working people and vulnerable communities face in Southampton. This is one way we can raise awareness of the needs of our community, while also partnering with an organization that is connected with those most in need,” commented Councilmember Iasilli.
Councilwoman McNamara added, “Given that we have many seasonally employed residents, budgets are tight this time of year. Even though the holidays are over, the need continues. We wanted to make sure that after the holidays, when donations generally wane, we can still help our local families.”
For more information, please call Robin Preiato, HOH Program Coordinator, at robin@heartofthehamptons.org or 631-259-3550.
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