Senator Joseph Addabbo is demonstrating a comprehensive approach to community service this month through a trio of impactful initiatives that span charitable giving, family entertainment and legislative advocacy for veterans.
Throughout the month of May, Addabbo is organizing a donation drive in support of Sacred Heart Parish Ministries in Glendale. The Senator is opening his district offices as collection sites. Residents are encouraged to contribute items from now through May 31.
Donations can be dropped off at two locations: 84-16 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven and 66-85 73rd Place in Middle Village. Both offices are open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The list of suggested donations includes a wide range of personal care and cleaning supplies such as hand soap, dish soap, laundry detergent, shampoo and conditioner, toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissues, deodorant, toothpaste, and toothbrushes.
On the food side, there is an ongoing need for items such as: flour, sugar, vegetable oil, shelf-stable milk, pasta and noodles, pasta sauce, peanut butter and more.
“In times of need, our community’s strength shines brightest when we come together to support one another,” Addabbo said. “I encourage everyone to donate what they can. Your generosity will make a real difference in the lives of families facing hardships, and together, we can ensure no one goes hungry or without essential personal care items.”
In addition to his charitable efforts, Addabbo is collaborating with the City Parks Foundation to bring a live PuppetMobile performance of ‘Pippi Longstocking’ to Painters Playground in Rego Park. The event will take place on Thursday, May 23, from 11 a.m. to 12 noon, and is free and open to the public. The playground is located adjacent to PS 174 at 65-30 Dieterle Crescent.
The PuppetMobile, a traveling marionette theater operated by the City Parks Foundation, will feature a creative adaptation of ‘Pippi Longstocking’ by Astrid Lindgren. The performance celebrates the 80th anniversary of the beloved children’s book and its enduring message of independence and courage.
Nearly two dozen handcrafted marionettes, created by expert puppeteers, will be featured in the show.
“This event is a wonderful opportunity for children and families to experience the magic of storytelling and celebrate a timeless character who inspires independence and confidence,” Addabbo said. “I’m looking forward to bringing this program to the community and seeing the happiness it brings to the youth.”
Meanwhile, on the legislative front, Addabbo, who serves as a member of the Senate’s Veterans, Homeland Security, and Military Affairs Committee, is celebrating the passage of a major piece of legislation aimed at supporting veterans. Senate Bill S.6274, which he co-sponsors, was passed on Korean War Veterans Day in Albany.
The bill provides housing preferences to veterans with service-related disabilities under the Affordable Home Ownership Development Program.
“This legislation is a meaningful step in our ongoing commitment to the brave men and women who have sacrificed for our country, “said Addabbo. “By giving preference to service-disabled veterans in affordable home ownership programs, we are not only conveying gratitude but also ensuring they have access to the stability and dignity they deserve.”
The program is managed by NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) and focuses on increasing affordable housing availability for low- and moderate-income residents. S.6274 amends existing program criteria to give priority to disabled veterans, addressing the unique challenges they face in securing stable and affordable housing.
“The passage of this bill on Korean War Veterans Day underscores our commitment to honoring all veterans, past and present,” Addabbo added. “As someone who has long championed veterans’ issues, I can’t emphasize how important it is we continue to support those who have borne the physical and emotional burdens of military service.”
