Huntington Helps its Own

The holiday season has always been a time when people find themselves searching for meaningful ways to connect with their families, friends and communities. Raising money or donating toys are rewarding ways to balance the excess that this time of year can sometimes represent.

With so many of our neighbors suffering through this difficult economy, you don't have to look far for a place that can use your help.

Councilwoman Glenda Jackson has initiated a food drive to help relieve some of the burdens that affect so many families who are in need. Non-perishable food items and toiletries can be donated in the main lobby of Town Hall through January 30. Donations will be distributed to food pantries within Huntington which are all operating below capacity.

operates a Huntington "food share" at 6:30 pm every Tuesday night at Fairground Avene and East 6th Street where free food, clothing, blankets and other necessities are shared with anyone who has a need. They are currently collecting new and gently used toys for all ages, as well as warm clothing, coats, gloves, hats, sleeping bags and blankets for their "Holiday Toy Collection and Share" and "Rock-Out-The-Cold-Athon". From now through Christmas, drop off your donations at Urban Coffee in Greenlawn or you can drop by the regular Tuesday night food share.

is collecting new toys and gift cards as part of "Project TOY" (Treasure Our Youth). Parents struggling with financial hardship are invited to shop (at no cost) for holiday gifts, allowing them the pleasure of presenting these gifts to their children. Volunteers are encouraged to organize a toy drive within their group or organization or display a toy collection box at their place of business. Cash donations are also welcome. For more information, call 631-427-3700, ext 255.

in Huntington Village is holding its annual toy drive to benefit . New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at their office on New Street through December 22.

is collecting toys during its Sunday Brunch with Santa on Dec. 12 and Dec. 15. Children are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to Santa who will deliver the gifts to children at the .

Both and have placed donation boxes in businesses throughout the town. All of the money collected goes right into the Huntington community to provide those less fortunate with gifts, food, clothing and other necessities.