Donations Overflowing At Fire Department Food Drive For Needy

SOUTHOLD, NY — The community opened its hearts to donate to the needy during a recent food drive hosted by the Southold Fire Department.

According to Southold Fire Department Chief Peggy Killian, 1st. Lt. of Rescue Cathy Wilinski suggested the food drive.

"It was an awesome idea, since fire departments are always giving of themselves to help others. Compared to putting out a fire or rescuing a person in need, we figured this would be a breeze," Killian said.

The community turned out in force to help their neighbors: So many donations of food and non-perishable goods were garnered that a truck had to be emptied twice a day over the weekend, Killian said.

Donations covered every inch of the firemen's room, including seven tables, the pool table, chairs, the floor, and the counters, Killian said. "There was no room left," she said.

Wilinski's committee separated all the items and boxed everything to be given out to organizations including Catholic Charities USA, Maureen's Haven homeless outreach, and Community Action of Southold Town, Killian said.

"We are so happy to be members of our small community and to see how much people help people," Killian said.

Killian thanked the committee including Wilinski, Capt. Mike Gosinski, and Lt. Deb Cox, and firemen John Funke, Allison Uribe, Peter Lesica, Lauren Uribe, Carol Miller, and Ryan Weingart.

"We'd like to thank the public for all the donations of food," she said.