An organization is getting ahead of old man winter thanks to the charitable efforts of youngsters and a local businessman.
Old Bethpage-based Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way Inc. received a $1,000 grant recently from The Allstate Foundation. The gift honors Allstate Agent and Massapequan Salvatore Ferrante’s volunteer efforts to make sure everyone has a warm coat when the winter chill blows back.
“We are pleased to partner with Allstate and their commitment to making our hometowns better, safer places to live,” said Kids Way Inc. executive director Bob Eslick.
Ferrante, whose agency is located in Merrick, said it was an easy decision to help this worthy organziation.
“The Ferrante Agency is proud to support and volunteer with Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way Inc. and its 2014 ‘Making a Warmth of Difference’ winter apparel program,” said Ferrante. “It’s an important way we give back to our community. Volunteering is an extension of what we do every day-protecting people and preparing them for the future.”
The “Making a Warmth of Difference” winter apparel program is now celebrating its 11th year. Eslick said even though summer is around the corner, it is never too early to start preparing for harsh winter months.
“Many Long Island families are still facing very tough economic times and this apparel will most certainly come in handy during the cold winter months that will once again soon be upon us, noting we just came off a brutal winter in 2013,” said Eslick, adding that the program focuses on obtaining only new branded winter apparel rather than used items to give to children and families. “A lot of kids today, especially those that live in economically challenged areas don’t often get new branded apparel and this is their opportunity to receive something special.”
Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way Inc. has worked very closely with numerous Nassau County agencies and those they serve. Some of the agencies that have benefited from this winter apparel include the Education & Assistance Corporation, The Salvation Army, The Mary Brennan INN, C.A.S.A Coordinated Agency for Spanish Americans, Nassau County Social Services among others.
The organization was founded in 1997 by a 9-year-old and its mission is to encourage philanthropy in young people. Our members have spent thousands of volunteer hours via a variety of programs with a vision, a dedication and a drive that addresses various community and individual needs. It began with a legacy of community service to improve the quality of life for many, specifically kids in need. Eslick said this vision continues with a “no excuses” attitude that significant achievement can occur for those who have the courage to overcome disappointment and setback to pursue their dreams.
Kids Helping Kids junior members John and Michael Pickett of Syosset said teaching kids to help at a young age will greatly improve the world at large.
“If we as kids can teach the youth of America to help each other at such a young age,iImagine what we can do for each other when we become teenagers and adults.”
For more information, contact Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way Inc. at 516-249-9449 or email happykidsclub@aol.com.
