New York State Funeral Directors Association members lending a hand statewide

Leaders, members & staff participate in volunteer event in communities throughout NYS

The New York State Funeral Directors Association (NYSFDA) established partnerships with local Food Banks throughout the state as part of a community give-back event. Members and staff of the association volunteered their time at five regional Food Banks this week.

“Our members – licensed funeral directors and their staff – are successful local business owners and respected members of their community,” said Mike Lanotte, NYSFDA executive director. “Our ‘Lend a Hand’ campaign, the first for NYSFDA, provided an opportunity to come together – from Buffalo to Long Island – and help fight hunger.”

In support of the Food Banks’ overarching goal of getting healthy food to those in need, volunteer efforts took place in local warehouses. Volunteers sorted and repackaged donated food and other items in preparation for local distribution.

“We were thrilled to roll up our sleeves and get food and other essential household items ready for those who need a little extra assistance,” stated John Kelly, NYSFDA president and owner/manager of Edward L. Kelly Funeral Home in Schroon Lake.

Volunteers reported to the following locations:

√ Food Bank for NYC at Union Square Park on Monday.

√ FeedMore of WNY in Buffalo on Wednesday

√ Food Bank of the Southern Tier in Elmira on Wednesday

√ Regional Food Bank of Northeastern in Latham on Wednesday

√ Long Island Cares in Hauppauge on Wednesday

“It was nice to get out of the office and give back to those in need and our community,” said Michael Gorton Jr., CFSP, of McManus-Lorey Funeral Home in Medford.

For more information, visit my.nysfda.org/lendahand.