With food pantries running dangerously low on supplies, many Long Islanders are faced with difficult times in the cold months ahead.

As part of an ongoing community service focus that began in September, the student government at Massapequa's Birch Lane Elementary School, under the direction of teacher Brian Mulcahey, is hoping to make a difference this holiday season, and for the rest of the year, by spearheading numerous fundraisers to help Long Island's homeless.

"The support of the community has been overwhelming," said Mulcahey, who began raising funds via a sports memorabilia sale in September, and continued with bake sales and other fundraisers, until he was able to take student government members on a shopping spree during which close to 100 new coats were purchased, in addition to a wide assortment of toys. "I believe in the importance of giving back to one's community, and the students and Birch Lane school community have done an outstanding job in making this all happen."