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Community Corner

Mercy Center Ministries Honors Sayville Resident

Kay Cameron recognized for her work with local charity with homes in Blue Point, Patchogue and Sayville.

Mercy Center Ministries held its 27th annual journal celebration honoring Sayville’s Kay Cameron at Land’s End on March 27.  More than 60 of Kay’s family, friends, colleagues and supporters came out to celebrate in her honor.

Mercy Center Ministries is celebrating 27 years of service to homeless teen girls and teen mothers ages 16 to 21 in Suffolk County. The first location, Mercy Center was opened in Patchogue in 1983. Mercy Residence opened its doors in Blue Point in 1989, followed by Mercy House in Sayville in 1989.

“Today we are celebrating an individual who embodies true community spirit and who has tirelessly given back to her community, which is also Mercy’s community,” said Briana Taylor, executive director of Mercy. “She has been a supporter of Mercy from the very beginning. Kay Cameron is a shining example of the kind of giving that makes a true difference in the world. She is an inspiration to everyone around her. We are very fortunate to have you as part of the Mercy community. People like you help the Mercy girls find a place in this world. Your support tells us you care about them as much as we do.”

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Legis. Bill Lindsay presented Kay with a proclamation from the Suffolk County Legislators. “People like Kay are the backbone of our community,” he said. “Kay is involved so much in the community, which is really what Sayville is all about. Simply put, we are very proud of you and thankful to have you as a part of our community.”

Kay’s friend Jay Miller, last year’s Mercy honoree, also delivered a tribute to her. “I have known Kay for 30 years,” Miller said. “I’m here to talk about Kay’s efforts on behalf of the Sayville Chamber of Commerce. She has been a member for 20-plus years and served as the past president. She is the chairperson for the grants committee. She is responsible for the kiosks in town, the holiday lighting and the banners on the flag post. A few years ago, we were having a problem with the trees in town. Kay researched trees and helped to solve the problem. She started the jewelry business in her home and it now has become a flagship store we are all proud of in Sayville. Kay taught me about the importance of random acts of kindness.”

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Another tribute was presented to Kay by her friend, former assemblywoman, Ginny Fields. “I met Kay 20 years ago when I was a member of the Sayville Chamber. I remember how diligent, committed and tenacious she was. You never had to guess what Kay was thinking because she always told you. She has an exemplary work ethic and she is an excellent businesswoman who has made it through some tough economic times. She is involved in so much charity work and she always fought hard for her causes. Kay is a strong woman, a loyal woman and a major role model for us all.”

One of Kay’s sons, Bryan Cameron, took to the podium to pay tribute to the many great qualities of his mother. “It was actually hard to find a picture of my mom alone for the front cover of this journal,” he said. “That’s because she is never standing still or she’s doing something for someone else, so there are always people surrounding her. She started her jewelry business part time from our house while she was raising four kids. She has given up so much for so many people. Every time I am introduced to someone new, they ask ‘Are you Kay’s son?’ I can tell you it is such an honor to be known as Kay’s son.”

Lastly, Kay addressed the audience. “I can’t stress the importance of helping others,” she said. “I learned it from my parents and I think we all have the responsibility to teach it to our children. I have been lucky enough to marry someone who has the most generous and kind heart. He has always been my biggest supporter. Tee Kennedy (founder of Mercy) was a good friend of mine and I am grateful that she shared her enthusiasm of Mercy with me. I feel privileged to be part of an organization that will affect future generations to come. One good idea can change the lives of many. Tee Kennedy leaves her legacy in this organization. I hope you all make the time to stop, look and open your hearts for others because you may change their lives.”

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