Meng Supports Cuomo Initiative To Help Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault Victims
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Bayside, Flushing, Forest Hills, Rego Park, Fresh Meadows, Glendale, Kew Gardens, and Maspeth) yesterday threw her support behind Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo‘s announced $5 million in funding through the state Office of Victim Services that will allow the State University of New York (SUNY) to supply and distribute 225,000 comfort bags to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence seeking help at hospitals, shelters and rape crisis centers across the state.
The funding will continue and expand the “SUNY’S Got Your Back” program, which has provided roughly 25,000 bags to victims throughout the state in the last three years — each containing essential personal care items and vital information about the services available to them.
“This unique partnership has brought support to tens of thousands of victims while spreading awareness of sexual assault and domestic violence on SUNY campuses statewide,” Cuomo said. “With additional investments to bolster this initiative, we can continue to help survivors while working to end the cycle of sexual assault and violence that affects so many New Yorkers.”
The Office of Victim Services (OVS) is providing the funding to SUNY over three years from money received through the federal Victims of Crime Act. The funding will enable SUNY to purchase supplies for the bags and coordinate volunteers across the state to assemble them, including faculty, staff and students on each of its 64 campuses. The OVS also will work with SUNY to forge partnerships with organizations that assist underserved populations, including the LGBTQI+ community, individuals with disabilities and the homeless, so they participate in the program with the goal of raising awareness about the resources available for all victims.
“Victims of sexual assault and domestic violence often feel lost, not knowing where to turn for help. These comfort bags provide more than just toiletries—which are essential for individuals who lack the option to return to the comfort of their own home—they provide critical information to assist victims as they seek to rebuild their lives. I commend the Governor for allotting state funds to support such a worthy investment, and for fighting for equality and for the rights of New York’s women,” said Meng.
Addabbo To Honor Veterans With Free BBQ This Month
State Sen. Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach, Ozone Park, Woodhaven, Glendale, Middle Village, Maspethand parts of South Ozone Park, Ridgewood, Woodside, The Rockaways) will once again be hosting his free annual Veterans BBQ in Howard Beach at the end of September to celebrate veterans and their service to the country.
As the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, Addabbo has been hosting this free event since he became a member of the Senate in 2008.
“As I like to say, every day is Veterans’ Day, and one of the best ways to honor our veterans is by throwing them their very own party,” Addabbo said. “The men and women who have served in our armed forces and put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms that we enjoy deserve to feel appreciated all of the time. It is my honor to host this free event for veterans each year, so they know that their service to our country is respected and appreciated by all.”
This year’s event is slated for between 12 noon – 2 p.m. Saturday, September 29 at the Howard Beach Motor Club, 59 Russel Street in Howard Beach. Veterans and a guest are invited to enjoy food, music, and drinks donated by several local businesses and organizations. Seating is limited and reservations are required.
Veterans are welcome to attend the event and may bring one guest with them. To make the necessary reservations, call Addabbo’s office at 718-738-1111.
Sanders KIcks Off Senior Appreciation Month, Showing Of BlackkKlansman
State Sen. James Sanders Jr. (D-Rochdale Village) will kick off Senior Appreciation Month this Friday at press conference announcing a packed calendar of events including concerts, breakfasts, luncheons, movies and more.
“I am proud to recognize Senior Appreciation Month, which will feature many great activities for the golden members of our society,” Sanders said. “It is important that we as a community recognize our seniors and show our unwavering commitment to them as a thank you for paving the way for the next generation and providing steadfast guidance during the troubling times of today. I applaud my colleagues in Congress, the Senate, the Assembly, and the City Council for partnering to bring this all together, and sending a clear message that the best things in life come with age.”
Additionally, Sanders will host a free screening of the Spike Lee film, BlackkKlansman, the true story of the first African-American detective to serve in the Colorado Springs Police Department and his mission to infiltrate and expose the Ku Klux Klan.
The movie is slated for 10 a.m., Sept. 14 at the Jamaica Multiplex, 159-02 Jamaica Avenue in Jamaica. Movie Note: Very limited seating. You Must Call to RSVP 718-523-3069. First come, first served. You must be a senior. Constituents of Senator Sanders’ District will be given preference.
The kickoff for Senior Appreciation Month is from 10 a.m. – 12 noon, Friday, Sept. 7 at the Roy Wilkins Gym (inside Roy Wilkins Park), 177th Street & Baisley Boulevard in Jamaica.
