Those in need do need our help

As many Long Islanders enjoyed a bountiful meal on Thanksgiving, too many neighbors faced a more difficult holiday season in which they're not sure where to find their next meal.

Rising prices have made it even tougher for those who often struggle to make ends meet. Long Island Cares has seen a 54% increase in the population it serves compared with 2023. It's now assisting 28,300 individuals; 25% are children. Beyond that, about 221,000 Long Islanders struggle with food insecurity, according to Randi Shubin Dresner, chief executive of Island Harvest. A recent poll from No Kid Hungry, however, showed the problem is even more extensive, as 80% of Long Island households said it's become harder to afford groceries.

Organizations like Long Island Cares and Island Harvest can only meet that need with assistance. Suffolk County, for instance, recently partnered with Island Harvest, providing $250,000 to jump-start the "Nourish Suffolk County" initiative to provide fresh produce to families in need.

Often, their need goes beyond food. Some local families can't keep a roof over their heads, or cannot afford warm clothes or coats or gloves. Others can't provide their children with toys or other gifts. So they depend on the rest of Long Island. "It's going to take all of us to help our neighbors in need," said Long Island Cares chief executive Paule Pachter. 

We can help. On a day known for shopping and diving into holiday festivities, take a moment to volunteer your time or give what you can to a local toy, clothes or food drive, or donate to licares.org or islandharvest.org.

Those in need, need us. All of us.