Whether it’s the holidays inspiring charitable giving or appeals to squeeze in tax write offs before the New Year, ‘tis the season when Long Islanders are increasingly donating to charities and nonprofits.
Since there are so many that need help, Press readers helped whittle down the field when they voted Family Service League Best Not For Profit on Long Island in the 2017 Best of Long Island contest. The John Theissen Children’s Foundation was named Best Charity on Long Island in that competition.
Sometimes, an organization is created that positively impacts and changes lives, and in 1926, Family Service League did just that. Today, more than 50,000 families and individuals in need have relied on the safety net that is this extraordinary not for profit. Family Service League’s tireless staff operates more than 50 social service programs in more than 20 locations, providing both physical and emotional support to some of Long Island’s most vulnerable citizens. They give seniors companionship and purpose, they provide hope and protection for the homeless, they allay the fears and desperation of young adults consumed by addiction or mental illness, and they offer nourishment and shelter to the working poor facing insurmountable financial burdens.
And since 1992, the John Theissen Children’s Foundation (JTCF) has collected and distributed more than 920,000 new toys to sick and underprivileged children in hospitals and child-care facilities. First inspired by a sick 7-year old girl when John was 17, his mission is to spread cheer to all children. Celebrating 25 years since his first holiday toy drive, when he successfully collected more than 800 to distribute, JTCF has since grown into a year-round organization, also donating therapeutic and recreational equipment, electronics, arts and crafts, televisions, video games, and more, to children and facilities in need!
It’s no wonder why Long Islanders voted these two the best on LI!
To find all the other Best of Long Island contest winners, visit bestoflongisland.com Vote now through Dec. 15 for your favorite businesses and people in the 2018 Best of Long Island program.
Family Service League is located at 790 Park Ave. in Huntington. They can be reached at 631-427-3700 or fsl-li.org
John Theissen Children’s Foundation is located at 1881 Wantagh Ave. in Wantagh. They can be reached at 516-679-5098 or jtcf.org
