The Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way, Inc. not-for-profit organization located in Old Bethpage, via their “Making a Warmth of Difference” apparel program, delivered $140,000 in new coats, fleece and other winter related apparel to The Interfaith Nutrition Network (INN) in Hempstead.
The INN addresses the issues of hunger and homelessness on Long Island by providing food, clothing, shelter, long-term housing, and supportive services in a dignified and respectful manner for those who seek their help. Cynthia Sucich, Director of Communication at The INN said; ”the apparel donation received from Kids Helping Kids went above and beyond what we could have ever expected and in these hard economic times will most certainly come in handy for many children and their families during the winter months ahead.” Kids Way Inc. Executive Director Robert Eslick said; “full bellies and now warm hearts, a great combination”. This program focuses on obtaining new winter apparel rather than used, to give children and families in need something special. “A lot of kids today, especially those in areas that are economically challenged, don’t get new things and this is their opportunity,” said Eslick.
Kids Helping Kids has worked very closely with several Nassau County agencies in need of this apparel so those most in need will benefit. Other agencies that have received an additional $60,000 in winter-related apparel this year via the KHK “Making a Warmth of Difference” program include the Education & Assistance Corporation, Family & Children’s Association and Winthrop Hospital to name a few. Bob Ringel, the KHK apparel program coordinator helped secure this winter apparel with brands like MECCA, ECKO, Rocawear, Protégé, Nordic Track, Nike, Air Jordan etc. thanks to the generous donations from importers such as Kids Headquarters, Mr. Cory Silverstein; Mecca 5 Star Kids Marketing, Albert Pardo; High Life Apparel, Issac Levy among others. We even had a special request from The INN for a size 3X winter coat for a veteran who was homeless and we accommodated their wish. Ringel said, “a soldier protected our country and the least we can do is protect him from the cold weather this winter.”
Another past and current recipient of apparel from this program is Nassau County Social Services. The Department of Social Services Commissioner, Dr. John Imhof, noted that since its inception the KHK organization and the “Making a Warmth of Difference” program has collected and donated thousands of “new” coats, fleece and other winter-related apparel to Nassau County. In addition Commissioner Imhof said that “Kids Helping Kids is an outstanding role model example showing how youngsters reach out and care about kids less fortunate than themselves, especially in times of need”.
Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way Inc. was founded in 1997 and its mission is to encourage philanthropy in young people under the age of 18, specifically boys and girls under the age of 12. Operated by kids and supervised by adults, Kids Helping Kids is dedicated to reaching out to children’s peers who may have physical limitations, health problems, emotional needs, etc. Kids Helping Kids helps foster empathy for youngsters in need by creating an environment of understanding, working together to develop ways in which the children can help each other.
For more information contact Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way Inc. via e-mail at HappyKidsClub@aol.com or call 249-9449.
