Mother Nature Can't Rain On Grand Marshals' Mission For Giving

CENTER MORICHES, NY — Mother Nature may have rained on Sunday's Christmas Parade in Shirley — the event, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics & Shirley, was canceled with no rain date due to the soggy weather — but for grand marshals Cassy and Keith Caputo, the season of giving is still going strong.

Cassy and Keith, who live in Center Moriches, are a force for good in the community. Keith, 43, who has Down syndrome, is a familiar face in the community, helping all who need a hand: Caputo is founder and board president, along with his mom Cassy, of the 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization "Helping Makes U Happy," which aims to show how every human is capable of making a difference through volunteering.

Both were excited to be chosen as grand marshals of the Christmas parade; the theme was "My Favorite Christmas Song." Keith said his favorite holiday song is "Jingle Bell Rock" and Cassy's is "Mary, Did You Know."

Both say the holidays are a peak time for the charitable group.

"Christmastime is a very busy time for HMUH," both said. "Schools, counseling organizations, therapists and social workers refer families in need of Christmas assistance to us. With the help of many community members and volunteers, we shop and provide gifts, clothing, food, and wrapping paper to the families."

In addition, both said, HMUH hosts a Holiday Boutique at Oasis Rehabilitation and Nursing in Center Moriches, partnering with Oasis, so that residents can experience an afternoon of free shopping for friends and family members, enjoying holiday music and snacks.

"In addition, Helping Makes U Happy monitors a blessing box so that while many pantries are closed, people still have a place to get some food if needed. Several other organizations have asked us for help in acquiring teen gifts this year, and we are happy to be working on this," they said.

The community can lend a hand, too: "At Christmastime, donations of wrapping and tissue paper, bows and gift bags are always appreciated," Cassy and Keith said.

HMUH posts a signup on its Facebook page, as well as on the pages of other local community groups, for individuals who might wish to adopt a child or family's Christmas wishes, they said. They also collect non-perishable foods for fixing Christmas dinners and breakfasts, and provide a gift card or ham for the families referred to them, as well.

A wish list of requested food donations is posted on the organization's website and also on Facebook. To donate, reach out to Keith and Cassy at 631-848-9008.

The holidays are deeply meaningful to both.

"The most magical thing about the holiday season to both of us (besides enjoying it with our little grandson/nephew Kevin) is how so many organizations really pull together to help ensure a happy holiday season for our neighbors in need of a hand up," they said. "This year, as in years' past, some of the local organizations we have been blessed to work with are Caitlyn's Vision, Angels of Long Island, PJ Balzer, Help from the Heart (donating LI), the 7th precinct, and the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office."

Keith added: "And of course, the unexpected Christmas miracles like those from American Dream Abstract, whose president is a Shirley resident, and who not only has hugely helped our non-profit but is helping Angels of LI as well this year. They afford me the opportunity to represent Santa at their annual Dream Big holiday benefit, which provides many, many toys for local residents."

Keith added: "There's nothing like the happy you get from helping others. Happy holidays!"