We at the LIVS wanted to find a way to help those most in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. That's why in May of this year we started the LIVS Cares campaign to raise money for Long Island Cares: The Harry Chapin Food Bank.

The money sent to Long Island Cares was raised by donating the first month's rent from every new rental contact started with us during the month of May or June and from donations made by customers for our Curbside Service for Student Instruments program.

We want to say thank you again to everyone who helped donate and we wanted to share with you below the thank you letter we recently received from Long Island Cares.

The letter reads:

Dear Mr. Rufino,

You are an inspiration to us. Your donation of $2,102.00 on 7/13/2020 puts nutritious food on the tables of families throughout Long Island. Your gift will make a difference in the lives of almost 259,000 families – that’s approximately 64,900 people every week receiving emergency food. THANK YOU!

Nearly half of those receiving emergency food assistance are “working poor”: households that include at least one employed adult. 39% of Long Islanders who receive emergency food are children under 18 years old. While children are among the largest single population of hungry, they have virtually no voice; their needs are easily dismissed and overlooked, and they must rely on others to access the feeding programs and services they need. Your gifts are helping change their lives!

Thank you for helping Long Island Cares serve as the bridge between those who need help and those who can help. We are grateful for your support.

Sincerely,

Katherine M. Fritz, Chief Development and Communications Officer