Billy Gonyou, Food Drive and Community Events Manager at Long Island Cares describes the process for corporate, civic, and other organizations interested in sponsoring a food drive to benefit The Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank. Billy also discusses what types of foods are most requested by our neighbors in need, as well as by numerous food pantries that are members of Long Island Cares, Inc.

Kaylin Peterson, Philanthropy Manager at Long Island Cares, Inc., discusses her role in cultivating new individual and corporate donors. She also describes upcoming special events to support the regional food bank that all Long Islanders are invited to attend, including Paws Walk to benefit Baxter's Pet Pantry and the annual Harry Chapin Tribute Concert in Eisenhower Park scheduled for July 16.

As New York's legislative session comes to an end, NYS Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz discusses some of the legislative highlights, wins and losses that will have an impact on Long Island.

NYS Senator Mario Matera discusses the accomplishments and issues as the NYS legislative session comes to end. We take a closer look into such topics as crime, energy, education, and of course food insecurity in an honest and candid conversation.

Long Island Cares provides more than just food. Learn how our nutritionists provide lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables and educate our communities.

Kerry Tooker, Manager of Child Nutrition Programs at Long Island Cares, Inc., describes Long Island Cares' Summer Meals Program, which provides healthy meals for children experiencing food insecurity during the summer months when schools are closed. Working collaboratively with our partner agencies, Kerry oversees providing nutritious meals to some of the 65,000 children on Long Island that rely upon the regional food bank for a summer lunch or breakfast.

Paule Pachter welcomes Jennifer Cona, Managing Partner of Cona Elder Law.

"There are so many things that go into elder law, and one of our priorities is to help people with all of that under one umbrella."

Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, President and CEO of the Family & Children's Association discusses addiction on Long Island, kids' mental health, gun violence, and vulnerable seniors with Paule Pachter.

Robert Vitelli, CEO of the LGBTQ Network, shares with us the tailored programs offered at the center and the significant need for these programs within our community.

"The level of stigma that people in our community continue to face, even though there's been such great advances, is still very palpable and can be very challenging and demoralizing." Robert Vitelli, MA, CEO, LGBTQ Network

The LGBTQ community is extremely diverse and has a variety of needs. Older adults face significant levels of isolation and are often rejected by their families. 50% of LGBTQ people are not out at work because they fear losing connections with their co-workers. 25% of LGBTQ people live in poverty and are more susceptible to food insecurity. Robert Vitelli, CEO of the LGBTQ Network, takes us inside the LGBTQ Network and its essential role in the LGBTQ community.

"We are a home, and we are a voice. Not only for the LGBTQ community but for their families and their support system." Robert Vitelli, MA