Long Island Cares Names New President, CEO

LONG ISLAND — Katherine M. Fritz has been unanimously elected as the new president and CEO of Long Island Cares, Inc. – The Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank.

Fritz is the former vice president for development and communications for Long Island Cares, and has been with the organization since 2019.

“After a nationwide search, the board of directors of Long Island Cares found its next leader down the hall from the boardroom,” said David E. Herold, President of the Board of Directors at Long Island, in a release. "She will lead us in meeting the ever-increasing need ahead, which is what the battle against the challenging climate surrounding food insecurity requires. We believe that with her steady hand on the tiller, our mission will be advanced and the future of the people we serve will be brighter."

Her predecessor, Paule Pachter, served the community for more than 17 years and retired earlier this year.

According to a release, Long Island Cares’ vision is for a hunger-free Long Island. Their mission is to bring together available resources to benefit those in need and improve food security for families across Long Island.

The organization has more than 300 member food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, senior citizens’ residences, schools, and homeless shelters.

Fritz is committed to expanding programs that address the root cause of hunger, as well as amplifying advocacy across Long Island to combat food insecurity, Long Island Cares said.

Fritz has held various positions in the nonprofit sector for 30 years, including with the American Cancer Society, Guide Dog Foundation, America’s VetDogs, at a community hospital, and working at a cancer research funding organization.

Long Island Cares is a 501(c)(3) registered charity. More information, such as how to donate and volunteer with the organization, can be found online.