Very few not-for-profit organizations are structured in such a way as to have 100 percent of every dollar raised go directly to the poor. Help for the Poor, headquartered in Melville, does just that. Through the generosity of one person, all administrative expenses and overhead are paid with the result that all funds donated to Help for the Poor are used directly in helping those in need. Founded by Msgr. Thomas J. Hartman and Michael Pascucci, this nonsectarian organization helps poor people in several third world nations, New Jersey, New York City and Long Island.

The underlying mission of this group is to save those who have fallen through the net. Few of us stop to think that there are several million poor people in the metropolitan New York area and that includes Long Island. Many of these poor are undernourished and need daily help. Some of the Long Island organizations directly assisted by Help for the Poor include Island Harvest, Long Island Cares, the Interfaith Nutrition Network and the Institute for Student Achievement.

Monies raised by Help for the Poor provide grants to efficient agencies which support the frail elderly, the disabled, the poor, immigrants and those suffering with AIDS. Because of government cutbacks, many Long Island groups have relied heavily on the support of Help for the Poor. Focusing on housing and food, the organization truly makes a difference for people of all races, creeds and nationalities.

Michael Pascucci, the co-founder of Help for the Poor, sums up the purpose of the organization very clearly, "Help for the Poor supports the underserved people who are hungry, homeless and disabled."

There are many ways you can help. If you are a golfer, there will be a Help for the Poor Golf Classic at The Creek on Oct. 22. While having fun, you can help this worthy organization. Mary Cassidy can be contacted at 390-5070 for further information about the golf event.

The organization also welcomes financial and gifts-in-kind donations. Remember, 100 percent of each dollar donated goes to the poor. Your gift can make a significant difference to the poor in our region. If you need more information about Help for the Poor or want to make a contribution, please reach out to Mary Cassidy at 390-5070 or write to her at 270 South Service Road, Melville, NY 11747. This is one organization where your dollars can really make a statement in the lives of those less fortunate.