Third-Annual Adopt-A-Family Fundraiser Brings In $2,400

The third-annual Adopt-A-Family fundraiser at la Tavola in Sayville on Tuesday evening was deemed an overwhelming success, bringing in $2,400 for three needy families this holiday season.

Four Sayville graduates -- Lauren Corcoran, Lauren Fargione, Marissa Pratt and Jennifer Hoek – get in touch with a social worker who gives them information on a local family in need during Christmas. They host the annual event at la Tavola, and the restaurant generously donates the space for the event.

The organizers were slated to help one family in particular this year. The family of six has a disabled father and two children with special needs. The family was in a shelter and has recently been placed in an agency home. The children range in age from 19 to five.

But instead of helping just one family, the group is able to now help three different families thanks to the success of the fundraiser. “The first year we raised $600; last year was $1,800,” said Lauren Corcoran, one of the organizers. “Because we did so well last year, we are now able to help three families this year.”

 “This is the biggest turnout by far,” said Jennifer Hoek, one of the organizers. “People have been in and out of the event and they have left generous donations.”

The Adopt-A-Family group takes all of the money raised and purchases the most important items first, such as food and clothes, and some toys for the children with any leftover funds. “The first family we are helping is just coming out of a shelter – they need everything and we provide the basic necessitates, everything from mattresses to food and clothing.”

For a minimum of a $5 donation, guests get half priced beer and wine, half priced call drinks and $2 off top shelf and specialty drinks. There were raffle prizes and a 50/50 as well. 

Fifteen local businesses donated gift cards for the raffle – including 21 Main, Down the Rabbit Hole, Sayville Therapeutic, Say Me Nails, Blackbird’s, la Tavola, and Crickets. “This is an amazing fundraiser,” said Leo DeNicola, owner of la Tavola. “This has really grown so much over the last three years. Hopefully the trend continues, and if it does, we will get a tent next year.”

The organizers are still accepting donations until the end of the week. For those who would like contribute, email jhoek.relay@yahoo.co​m.