LI Hospital's Auxiliary's Car/Cash Giveaway Celebrates 20 Years

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GREENPORT, NY — It's a beloved tradition that's sparked a legacy of giving in Greenport: 2025 marks 20 years for the Eastern Long Island Hospital Auxiliary's beloved annual Car/Cash Giveaway, a fundraising event that has raised nearly $500,000 to support hospital programs, equipment and services.

This year's winner of the contest can win either a 2025 Jeep Compass or $20,000 in cash. The drawing is at 10 a.m. on May 20; for ticket information and pricing, click here.

According to hospital officials, the idea for the giveaway was born two decades ago when former Senior Vice President of Nursing Pat Pispia and former Volunteer Services Chairperson Toni De Meo discussed how to fund a much-needed piece of hospital equipment.

"Their creativity sparked a tradition that continues to unite the community and directly benefit patient care," officials said.

From the very first fundraiser, Mullen Motors, Inc. of Southold played a vital role, generously donating a vehicle every year, officials said.

The late Richard Mullen, who championed the cause from the start, "instilled a spirit of giving that lives on through his sons, who proudly continue the dealership’s support," hospital officials said.

To honor this milestone, members of the ELIH Auxiliary Board joined the Mullen brothers at the dealership to celebrate 20 years of partnership.

"This event is a remarkable example of what happens when community members come together with a shared purpose," said Paul Connor, chief administrative officer of Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital. "Thanks to the ELIH Auxiliary and the Mullen family, we’ve been able to invest in life-changing upgrades to our hospital over the past two decades."

"We are thrilled to mark 20 years of the Car/Cash Giveaway,” said ELIH Auxiliary President Helene Fall, reflecting on the event’s impact. "It’s a testament to the creativity, hard work, and dedication of our ELIH Auxiliary volunteers, and to the generosity of the Mullen family. We are deeply grateful for the support that continues to make a real difference for our hospital and our community."

Proceeds from the giveaway have helped fund a wide range of initiatives, from advanced medical equipment to critical facility improvements, ensuring that Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital can continue to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the North Fork, officials said.