Collection drive brings birthdays to homeless children

The Town of Oyster Bay is supporting a Collection Drive to support birthday parties for homeless children on Long Island. Donations collected May 1 through May 31 will support the charitable efforts of Birthday Wishes of Long Island, a not-forprofit organization located in Hicksville. Through the efforts of volunteers and donations, the organization provides birthday parties to over 1,500 homeless children each year, including gifts, homemade cupcakes, goody bags, activities and crafts.

“Birthday Wishes of Long Island is a wonderful organization comprised of giving and caring volunteers who help bring smiles to the faces of homeless children on Long Island—some of whom have never received a birthday party before,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino.

Town Councilwoman Laura Maier stated, “By giving to community-based programs and services that support children, you can ensure that you’re making an impact right here on Long Island. Help bring normalcy, hope and joy to a homeless girl or boy by donating today to this incredible cause.”

To support these birthday parties for Long Island’s homeless children, the following donations are sought:

• New, unwrapped toys for children of all ages

• Batteries of all sizes

• Wrapping paper

For those who wish to donate to Birthday Wishes of Long Island, collection boxes can be found in the following Town facilities:

• Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay

• Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Rd., Massapequa

• Ice Skating Center at Bethpage Community Park, 1001 Stewart Ave., Bethpage

For more information about the Birthday Wishes of Long Island collection drive, please contact (516) 624-6380 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.