Amityville, NY - March 17, 2015 - Suffolk County Legislature Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory recently joined the Suffolk County Department of Social Services and Suffolk County Police Department to help locate homeless adults in our area and assist them in identifying and obtaining services currently available to them.
The Homeless Outreach program began in 2012 as a joint effort between the Suffolk County Department of Social Services and Suffolk County Police Department. The need for this effort grew in 2013 leading to the formation of a set schedule of outings for the 2014-2015 winter season.
Peter Camporini and Dan Dixon from Services for the UnderServed (S:US) a nonprofit human services agency, Greta Guarton of Long Island Coalition for the Homeless and volunteers from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Lindenhurst accompanied Presiding Officer Gregory, a representative from Suffolk County Department of Social Services and an officer from the Suffolk County Police Department 1st Precinct on this most recent outing.
“Homelessness is a growing problem on Long Island and needs to be addressed,” said Presiding Officer Gregory. “Whether it be assisting those suffering from chronic homelessness, or those who find themselves temporarily homeless due to unforeseen circumstances such has house fires, raising awareness of this issue plays an important role in helping to end homelessness on Long Island. I applaud the efforts of all who gave their time to roll up their sleeves, get out on the streets and tackle this issue head-on.”
In addition to these efforts, Presiding Officer Gregory has partnered with the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless to present their “Have A Heart for the Homeless” Candlelight Vigil on Tuesday, March 31 at Farmingdale State College. This event will feature speakers, live music, free haircuts, snacks, refreshments and more. Residents may also drop off their donations of unused baby items such as diapers and formula, unopened cleaning supplies and toiletries, non-perishable food items, new clothing and coats. For more information, visit the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless’ webpage at www.addressthehomeless.org.