Residents Attempt to Help the Homeless

During the hearings when Mineola was considering whether the village should have its own police department, the subject of homeless people living in the village came up. There has been a recent effort to educate the citizens of Mineola on what they can do to help the homeless.

Pictured (l-r) are Mineola Civic Association President Bill Urianek, INN Executive Director Jean Kelly, Dennis Walsh and American Legion Post 349 Commander Sal Cataldo at the Golden Age Club meeting.

Recently, Jean Kelly, executive director of the Interfaith Nutrition Network (INN), an organization that addresses the issues of hunger and homelessness on Long Island by providing food, shelter, long-term housing and supportive services in a dignified and respectful manner for those who seek help, made a presentation to the Mineola Golden Age Club as well as at last week's village board meeting.

One of the soup kitchens that people in need can go to is the Mary Brennan INN, located at 100 Madison Avenue in Hempstead. The Interfaith Nutrition Network provides valuable services to those in need such as providing hygiene products, clothes and food to those in need.

Kelly said 300 people are fed every day with no questions asked and with dignity and respect. She explained that the INN has been very successful getting people off public assistance.

Kelly said she was impressed with the caring nature of the people of Mineola. Three of those people that have stepped forward in an effort to help are residents Bill Urianek, Dennis Walsh and John Carroll.

The three Mineola Civic Association members have volunteered to serve as liaisons to the Mary Brennan Inn. All those who wish to donate something to the INN to help those in need whether it be canned goods, hygiene products or clothes can contact Mr. Urianek, Mr. Walsh or Mr. Carroll. Mr. Urianek will also be collecting recyclable cans and bottles.

Mr. Urianek's number is 741-8315 and he resides at 335 Emory Road. Mr. Carroll can be reached at 747-7568 and he residents at 154 Banbury Road and Mr. Walsh can be reached at 294-0463 and he resides at 138 Albertson Place.

At the Mineola Golden Age Club meeting on Thursday between 11 and 12:30 p.m., there will be a collection of canned goods and clothes.

Those who wish to contact the Mary Brennan INN or volunteer time to the soup kitchen can call the INN at 486-8506.