Four Sullivan agencies join forces

By TOM KANE

MONTICELLO, NY - They’re calling it “Community Unity” and they aim to break the cycle of abuse, which harms children and impairs the quality of life in the county.

Four Sullivan County organizationsūThe Federation of the Homeless, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Rape Intervention Services and Education (RISE) and The Recovery Centerūhave joined forces to raise awareness and to raise funds for Sullivan County’s neediest population.

And to kick off and celebrate this new coalition, Mr. Willy’s Restaurant hosted a luncheon on December 6 at no cost to the agencies. “When we help people in need, we’re helping the community and raising the quality of life of everyone, not just a few,” Mr. Willy’s owner Bill Sipos said. “The entire community has to help in this effort.”

WVOS had its morning newscaster, J.C. Riggs, broadcast from the restaurant in order to highlight the event. The station also donated $2,500 worth of toys.

“Not enough people know who we are and what we’re doing,” said Claire Sullivan of CASA, spokesperson for the groups. “We’re all working to improve the quality of life of families in the county so it makes sense for us to join forces to do our jobs better.”

“We have to give our families a fighting chance if we want our kids to have a fighting chance,” said John LeGreci, supervisor of the Town of Lumberland and Sullivan County Republican Party Chairman. “This is not a partisan issue. Every party has to get on board this effort. Tim Hill, Sullivan County Democratic Party Chairman, will be here later today to join this effort.”

“If you can’t feed your children or give them a roof over their heads, you will do desperate things,” Sullivan said. “This is a way to help people avoid doing desperate things.”

The group has planned an event in January and another in February.

“Please join us in making a difference,” Sullivan said.

Those wanting to contribute should send their contribution to Community Unity, P.O. Box 609, Monticello, NY 12701. For more information call Claire Sullivan at 845/557-3645.