Patch Editors Give Back to the Community

Each year Patch editors are given five days to volunteer or give back to their communities. On Tuesday, to coincide with the launch of Patch's 100th site, local editors combined their efforts to help make a difference.

Five editors from nearby communities pitched in to generate school supply donations to help benefit the The John Theissen Children's Foundation. Founded in 1992 by local resident John Theissen, the nonprofit organization based in Wantagh supports sick and underprivileged children throughout the year. The school supply program assists children from low-income families.

For the past six years Assemblyman David McDonough has offered his Bellmore office as a drop off location for the drive.

"This is the best outlet," McDonough said. "He knows where the need is. There is always the need, but with this economy, it's quadrupled."

"His [McDonough] efforts have made such a big impact especially with the economy being so bad," Theissen said. "The response he gets from the community is great."

Rockville Centre Local Editor Anthony Bottan, Long Beach Local Editor Joe Kellard, Wantagh-Seaford Local Editor Andrew Coen, Merrick Local Editor Ryan Bonner, Bellmore Local Editor Jaime Sumersille, contributor Nancy Hiler and Built Well Solar all made donations to the cause.

Donations are still being accepted. For further information, contact Assemblyman McDonough by calling 409-2070 or via e-mail at mcdonoughd1@assembly.state.ny.us. In addition you can contact the John Theissen Children's Foundation by calling 679-5098, or by visiting their website.