Centerport, NY - January 31, 2017 - In response to a devastating fire that affected several families of Bull Calf Landing in Centerport on January 24, Councilman Mark Cuthbertson is partnering with Suffolk County Legislator William “Doc” Spencer, Coldwell Banker of Huntington, the Centerport Fire Department and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish in Centerport to help support those who have lost so much.

“The fire’s devastating impact, which thanks to the brave efforts of our first responders did not result in any loss of life, really takes its toll of those who are directly affected in the hours, days, weeks and months after,” stated Councilman Mark Cuthbertson. “The residents of Bull Calf Landing truly escaped this disaster with only the clothes on their backs and there is so much help and assistance that is needed, especially since there are several young children involved. Regardless of how well someone is insured, the funds typically do not arrive right away despite the dire and immediate need,” added Cuthbertson.

“This was a devastating fire that wiped out the belongings of five families, but it has not put out the spirit of our caring and generous community. I’m thankful to be a part of this team effort, including Councilman Mark Cuthbertson, Coldwell Banker of Huntington, the Centerport Fire Department and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish in Centerport, to help get the word out to the greater community on how we can all assist in building a bridge for these families, from this time of loss and destruction to a place of renewed stability and security,” stated Legislator Spencer.

"On the morning of January 24th five families experienced the unimaginable loss of their homes and all their belongings in a fire.  While we are all grateful that there was no loss of life, these families now face the task of rebuilding from the ashes.  Our parishioners here at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, along with the local community, offer our support in this time of need.  The families should know that we are here for them, to listen to them, to pray with them and to walk with them down this difficult road.”  Father John and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish, Centerport.

“Members of the Centerport Fire Department possess a deep sense of Community.  Please support our neighbors in their time of need,” stated Dr. Jack Geffken, Commissioner of the Centerport Fire Department,

Also assisting in this humanitarian effort is Joan Reilly who has been a resident of Bull Calf Landing for 30 years and a licensed sales agent with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Huntington.

"My heart goes out to all of my neighbors who have lost not only their homes but their memorabilia, belongings and memories of a beautiful community that has been destroyed by fire.  We've become closer and draw strength from each other during this time of rebuilding.   Everyone who was there was able to get out and there were no injuries or casualties.  Our company, our office, and the local real estate community has been helping and will continue to collect donations,” stated Joan Reilly of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage.

Those who would like to assist the victims and children of the fire, are asked to please donate gift cards from Old Navy, Target, Kmart, Value Drugs, CVS, or any local supermarket, kids or adult clothing stores or gift cards to a local restaurant, pizzeria or fast food. American Express gift cards will also be gladly accepted.

Gift Card donations can be dropped off at any of the four locations below thru Sunday, February 26:

• Huntington Town Hall, “main lobby,” 100 Main Street, Huntington, NY 11743
• Legislator William Spencer’s Office,15 Park Circle, Suite 209, Centerport, NY 11721
• Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish, 50 Prospect Street, Centerport, NY 11721
• Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 82 Main Street, Huntington, NY 11743

“It is also important to add that we are currently planning a fundraiser to take place within the month of February in Greenlawn – date, time and location will be announced soon,” added Mr. Cuthbertson.

For more information on how you can help, please call Councilman Mark Cuthbertson at: 631-351-3171, Legislator William Spencer at: 631-854-4500, Maria Ryan with Our Lady Queen of Martyrs at: 631-754-9045, Joan Reilly with Coldwell Banker at: 631-944-8933 or the Centerport Fire Department [for non-emergencies] at: 631-261-5916.