Long Island, NY - August 2, 2018 - Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie today joined Assemblymember Christine Pellegrino to continue his annual statewide tour in Long Island. The pair visited a local community counseling center, as well as an area along the south shore that is still struggling in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy.
“Each year, this statewide tour has given me a glimpse into the challenges and strengths of communities all across the state,” said Speaker Heastie. “When we return to Albany, these experiences help us shape our legislative priorities and remind us just how important that work is. These breathtaking shore communities add to the beauty of New York, but we must continue to find new and innovative ways to protect their future.”
“It was a privilege to show Speaker Heastie all that these amazing communities have to offer,” said Assemblymember Pellegrino. “We face many unique challenges, but organizations like YES Community Counseling Center demonstrate the resilience and sense of community that make this region truly special. I am also extremely grateful for the Speaker’s continued support of efforts to safeguard and prepare these shore communities from future natural disasters.”
Speaker Heastie and Assemblymember Pellegrino first stopped at YES Community Counseling Center, a local nonprofit that helps community members in southeastern Nassau County overcome issues that include domestic violence, substance use and addiction, family conflict, sexual abuse, marital/peer difficulties, suicide and loss, bereavement and other important issues. YES also provides social work services to Massapequa elementary students through their partnership with the schools. The organization works tirelessly to address issues related to the nation’s heroin and opioid epidemic. In the 2018 budget, Assemblymember Pellegrino was able to secure $50,000 for the Center’s Family Life Support Project.
Later, they toured the Babylon shore area to view Superstorm Sandy affected homes and discuss the sea gate study. Babylon Village is one area along the south shore still struggling with the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. In the 2018 budget, Pellegrino secured $250,000 to fund a study of the feasibility, costs, location, and impacts of a sea gate to act as a storm surge barrier. The construction of a sea gate is an innovative approach that would prevent damage to ecosystems, homes, businesses, and infrastructure on Long Island in the event of another storm like Irene or Sandy.