A charitable organization is spreading some warmth this chilly season.
The Long Island based not-for-profit organization Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way, Inc., has officially launched its 11th annual Making a Warmth of Difference winter apparel program and benefit. Since 2004, Kids Helping Kids has distributed more than $1.8 million in branded winter apparel to the kids most in need at numerous Long Island agencies, including
EAC Network, Salvation Army, Nassau County Social Services, CASA and The Mary Brennan INN. With an additional $400,000 in winter apparel that will be distributed over the next two months, Kids Helping Kids will have distributed in excess of $2.2 million in winter apparel.
“This program focuses on obtaining only new branded winter apparel, rather than used, to give to children at a critical time of year—the cold winter months now upon us,” said executive director Bob Eslick. “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 get something ‘special’ that keeps them warm.”
The Department of Social Services commissioner, Dr. John Imhof noted that since its inception, the organization and the Making a Warmth of Difference program has collected and donated thousands of new coats, fleece and other winter apparel to Nassau County. In addition, Imhof said that “Kids Helping Kids is an outstanding role model showing how youngsters reach out and care about kids less fortunate than themselves, especially in times of need.”
The organization was founded in Old Bethpage in 1997 by kids and its mission is to encourage philanthropy in young people. The group’s members have spent thousands of volunteer hours via a variety of programs with a vision, dedication and a drive that addresses various community and individual needs.
On Thursday, Dec. 11, Kids Helping Kids will hold their Making a Warmth of Difference Holiday Benefit at Oheka Castle. Tickets to the event sold out in less than two weeks, with attendance of more than 400 guests expected. Herb Williams, the former NBA basketball star from 1981 to 1999 who also served as interim head coach of the New York Knicks, will also be in attendance. Anyone interested in making a financial contribution or placing a journal ad, should call 516-249-9449 or email happykidsclub@aol.com.
The organization honors one notable youngster at its annual event. This year, Isaiah Bird will be recognized for his ability to light up a room with his big smile and spunky attitude. The 7-year-old was born with Cauldron Regression Syndrome, and was born without legs. Bird lives each day without excuses, and believes that nothing is going to
stop him.
Proceeds from the benefit will be used towards the Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way, Inc., Kids of Distinction Community Scholarship Program, which helps recipients fund some
of their college education and related expenses.
“There are so many wonderful young people who not only demonstrate academic or extracurricular skills, but also do a little something extra to help make the world a better place,” said Eslick. “We felt it was important to recognize our young residents who involve themselves in voluntary community, charity or civic activities on their own individual initiative.”
On Dec. 3 from 6:30 to 9 p.m., Kids Helping Kids will also hold their Still Making a Warmth of Difference winter apparel event at the Lee Avenue elementary school in Hicksville. This fundraiser will run in conjunction with the group’s Lee Avenue School team member’s memorial for Mary D’Andrea, a teacher at the school
for more than 25 years, who died suddenly this year and will be remembered for her efforts to support the community.
