North Fork Community Hero Opens Heart To Needy During Holidays

MATTITUCK, NY — Ask anyone on the North Fork whose name they find synonymous with giving back and, more often than not, they will echo the same response: Wendy Zuhoski.

Zuhoski, who owns Wendy's Deli in Mattituck, was named a Patch Hometown Hero in 2020 for her selflessness during the pandemic, as she delivered 150 meals to local health care workers.

But Zuhoski hasn't only given back during the dark days of the coronavirus: For years, she has been known for her giving heart, stepping forward to organize fundraisers for local families in need.

Every holiday season, she collects toys at her deli for the Mattituck Lions Club.

And she's also spearheaded another effort, collecting gift cards to donate to eight needy families every year to make the holidays brighter.

"It's just incredible how many people help us with this!" she said.

When asked why giving back means so much, especially during the holidays, Zuhoski said: "A few years ago after my father passed away, we as a family decided to not exchange gifts anymore. We decided we would all just chip in and find a family or two that we could help out."

The idea exploded into a flurry of giving over time, she said.

"A few people found out we were doing this and asked if they could chip in as well," Zuhoski said. "And from there it has become nothing less than amazing!"

The giving is done anonymously, with families receiving baked goods and a few small gifts.

"But mostly, it's gift cards, so that they are able to have their own personal Christmas," she said.

Zuhoski even makes sure to organize the fundraiser early so families have time to do their own shopping.

Maybe that's why the community was thrilled to nominate Zuhoski this year as a Hometown Hero.

Valerie DeFio of Mattituck nominated Zuhoski.

"She is truly a hero in our town," DeFio said of Zuhoski. "Over the years, she has stepped up when someone in the community has had a need. Whether it was a neighbor whose house burned down, or a community member with a life-threatening illness, or feeding our superhero essential workers that can't stay home. She's been a true bright light in our community. It's so nice to live in a town with people like that. When you can be anything, always be kind. She is an inspiration and these kinds of acts bring out the best in everyone."