Babylon charity drive extended
A food and clothing drive is being held at the First Presbyterian Church of Babylon for victims of superstorm Sandy. It was organized by Michelle Melfi, her mother Judy Skillen and sister Kim Skillen, all of Babylon. (Nov. 2, 2012) Credit: Handout
The food and collection drive held at the First Presbyterian Church of Babylon this weekend was such a success that it has been extended at least until the end of the week, or until supplies run out.
There are hundreds of coats, clothes, food, toiletries, baby food and formula, shoes, towels and linens, among other items, said Michelle Melfi, of Babylon, who helped organize the effort.
Donations still needed include boxes, cleaning supplies, industrial garbage bags, gloves, masks, laundry detergent, water, heavy socks, underwear, diapers, wipes, bread, snack items, mayonnaise, tuna fish and manual can openers.
“Contractor bags are like gold,” she said.
Melfi said the group has gotten so many clothing donations that the operation spread from the church’s gymnasium to five classrooms in its Christian education building.
Initially, the program was set to end yesterday. Now, donations can be delivered or picked up from noon-4 p.m. through next Sunday, or as long as supplies are left.
Melfi said some volunteers have gone so far as to “run back and forth” directly to people in need.
“The community has been extremely generous and we’re appreciative of that,” Melfi said. “This is something that blossomed into a wonderful outreach for the community.”
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