On June 3, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads, along with fellow Long Island Senators including Dean Murray and legislative interns, participated in the Annual Senate Farm Day of Action at Island Harvest’s Healthy Harvest Farm in Brentwood. This initiative, led by Senator Rhoads, aims to unite Long Island senators for a day focused on service and sustainability.
The event was organized in collaboration with Island Harvest, a leading hunger relief organization on Long Island. Participants harvested, cleaned, dried, and packaged nearly 150 pounds of fresh lettuce. The produce was distributed through Island Harvest’s food bank and reached local dinner tables the following day.
Senator Rhoads expressed his commitment to sustainability and community support: “This is what taking action for sustainability looks like—boots on the ground, sleeves rolled up, and a shared commitment to feeding our neighbors,” he said. “It was a fun, educational, and incredibly rewarding day.”
Attendees were given insights into the operations at Island Harvest’s Healthy Harvest Farm. The farm is managed by one staff member named Cassidy and supported by volunteers. Senator Rhoads highlighted the importance of such initiatives: “Hunger is a serious issue on Long Island… Initiatives like this remind us of our region’s rich agricultural heritage and the vital role local food banks play in addressing hunger.”
Rhoads thanked Cassidy, Randi Shubin Dresner (President & CEO of Island Harvest), and their team for their efforts. He noted the success of the event: “Our Senate Farm Day of Action was a great success… I look forward to continuing this initiative.”
State Senator Dean Murray also praised the event: “Island Harvest plays a vital role… I am thankful to my colleague NYS Senator Rhoads for extending an invitation… Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors.”
Randi Shubin Dresner acknowledged the contributions made by elected officials: “This is the power of community,” she said. “Sens. Steve Rhoads and Dean Murray have been champions… Through their efforts, families across Long Island had access to the freshest possible produce.”
