Community Corner
Motorcycle Run Revs Up Mercy Haven's Coffers
The nonprofit organization held their fourth annual Ride for Change Motorcycle Poker Run on Sunday, closing with an "after party" at VIP Billiards.
Mercy Haven, a 25-year-old nonprofit organization based in Islip Terrace, held their fourth annual Ride for Change Motorcycle Poker Run on Sunday, followed by an after party at VIP Billiards in Bayport.
More than 100 bikers and volunteers attended, including U.S. Rep. Steve Israel. Food for the party was provided by Annie's Pantry in Bayport, Christopher's Pizzeria & Restaurant in Blue Point, Blackbirds Grille in Sayville, Pine Grove Inn Restaurant in Patchogue, Legends of Bayport and Atlantic Avenue Deli. Beverages were provided by SuperStar Beverage Center of Bayport. The group also received other support from The Fish Store and Camelot Party Rentals. Musical entertainment was provided by Long Island's 102.3 WBAB.
The purpose of the event was to raise funds to support and maintain the quality of Mercy Haven's programs.
Find out what's happening in Sayville-Bayportwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"We started as a small group of people who saw the need to feed the hungry, house the homeless. People got very involved in trying to advocate for social change and create housing," said Sister Pat Griffith, Executive Director of Mercy Haven.
American Motorcycle Association, a local chapter of The American Spirit Motorcycle Club, sanctioned the ride. Other groups participated, including the Long Island Riders, Nassau Wings, Iron Maidens, Fire Riders of Nassau County and members of the Harley Owners Group.
Find out what's happening in Sayville-Bayportwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The 90-mile ride began with registration at Mercy Haven's main office followed by a beautiful ride throughout Suffolk County with two pit stops: first, Mastic's Ice Cream Cottage offered the motorcyclists a free cup of ice cream, and later, Renegade Classics in Deer Park provided snacks and beverages.
A speech written by a Mercy Haven participant was read during the celebration at VIP Billiards. "Mercy Haven is simply one word to our family," Michelle, a single parent of three said, "To us, it means that there is hope out there." Her insight and sharing illustrated to all what they were riding for. The event raised significant funds to continue supporting the agency's programs and services.
