Romaine Praises INTERFACE Program

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine praised members of the town's INTERFACE steering committee as their program raised more than $866,000 for needy families in 2012.

"Helping those in need must be a priority of the government and private sector as well, especially during these tough economic times," Romaine said. "Our poorest residents are children and we need to do whatever we can to make their lives at least a little better each day and help prepare them for adulthood."

The INTERFACE program is made up of 125 corporations, nonprofit agencies, community and fraternal organizations who work together to collect ideas, resources and connections to better provide for needy families and individuals, particularly children in Brookhaven.

Romaine recognized INTERFACE coordinator Maria Polak and Neighborhood Aide Josie Lunde for their time and talent in leading the program.

The organization also co-sponsors several special events each year:

• "Totes for Tots," a drive to collect duffel bags, large backpacks and small suitcases for the foster care program.
• "Toys for Kids," a holiday toy drive that distributes thousands of toys to needy Brookhaven families.
• "Free Prom Gowns" and accessories for young women experiencing financial difficulty.
• "Back to School" to prepare children with notebooks, calculators, book bags and more distributed through local youth agencies.
• Food drives during the holiday season or when there is a shortage of the town's food pantries.

Learn more about the town's INTERFACE program or become involved by visiting the town's website or calling 631-451-8014.