Southeast Folks, Putnam Serve Sick

Community Cares, a Mahopac-based organization that aims to lend a hand to families who have a loved one diagnosed with cancer, couldn't do what they do without local businesses and volunteers.

Aversano's in Southeast is one of the establishments that works with the non-profit, donating meals to those struggling with a sick family member.

“Sometimes, it’s just showing people that they’re not alone,” John Aversano, who owns the restaurant with his brother Paul, said. “One day you hope, God forbid, if something happens to you, someone would be willing to help.”

The organization receives no government grants or funding, and relies on people like John and Paul to carry out their cause.

"We have never turned anyone away and are here to help our neighbors," the organization said in a recent Facebook post. "Many times, our clients have to quit jobs that they couldn't continue with because of stage-four cancer diagnosis. We have families where the primary wage earner can't work because of cancer. We have had families we serve spend all their savings on child care and we were able to get them some pre-school scholarships to give them a few hours of rest. We serve single moms working through their chemo treatments. What we offer these families is some peace of mind and some real, grass-roots help. We are on the front lines with these families and speak with them every week providing meals, a clean house and clean laundry.

...We do all this with one computer, a printer, a small office with donated desks and chairs. This is a community-wide volunteer outreach, helping those who really need help."

While the organization's Facebook page is filled with message of thanks to local businesses for contributing, more help is always welcome.

Learn more about Community Cares by clicking here or calling 845-621-2273.