Bethpage, NY — Ahead of Independence Day, Senator Steve Rhoads organized the 3rd Annual Freedom Food Drive, collecting over 800 pounds of food for the Food Pantry at Our Lady of Mercy in Hicksville. The event took place on Saturday, June 28, outside the ShopRite on Hempstead Turnpike and attracted numerous volunteers, including local Scout troops and civic groups.
“This event is about more than just food—it’s about freedom, community, and compassion,” said Senator Steve Rhoads. “As we celebrate our independence, we also recognize the importance of looking out for one another. I’m incredibly proud of our community for showing up, giving back, and helping ensure no family goes hungry this summer.”
The food drive was held in partnership with Island Harvest, a major hunger-relief organization on Long Island that assisted with donation logistics.
“Senator Steve Rhoads has been a champion in the fight against hunger on Long Island and across New York State,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, President & CEO of Island Harvest Food Bank. “Senator Rhoads’ ‘Freedom Food Drive,’ held annually around Independence Day is one of the highlight food drive events of the summer and we thank him and his staff for their continuous support.”
The collected food will directly benefit Our Lady of Mercy Food Pantry’s shelves, which aid hundreds of families monthly.
“Food is one of the few things that has the power to bring people together; it is more than just sustenance; it’s Hope and Love. Our Lady of Mercy Food Pantry’s shelves overflow with the over 800 pounds of food collected during the Senator Rhoads Freedom Food Drive at the Bethpage ShopRite. The Senator’s dynamic team of interns, volunteers, and very generous community who purchased just one or two additional items for donation made a difference in the lives of our neighbors this summer. On behalf of our neighbors in need, thank you!” said Genny Feliciano with Our Lady of Mercy Parish Services.
Senator Rhoads intends to continue this annual tradition to encourage more residents to participate in giving back during this patriotic season.
