January 9th, 2019 – As the year begins we count our blessings and are optimistic about the future. Unfortunately, there are some folks in our “boating family” who are less fortunate at the moment.
The US Coast Guard is the only branch of the military who is working without pay during the government shutdown. Thankfully this is not occurring during the height of boating season but these men and women still stand ready to respond to any emergency and are still reporting to work. They still have bills to pay and families to feed.
According to Commander Mark Williams who oversees the “Aids to Navigation” (which includes our local waters) in New Haven, the best way to help the “Coasties” and their families is to send them gift cards for gas and groceries. Checks can be made payable to “Chief Petty Officer Association” with Shut Down Fund CT-NY in the memo line*. These donations will be converted into gift cars for gas and food.
The Greater Huntington Council of Yacht and Boating Clubs is setting up this gift card drive. We ask that all of our member clubs participate as well as making our entire boating community aware of this effort. Everyone is encouraged to participate and every donation whether great or small is meaningful. We are collecting gift cards and checks Until January 31h. We will reevaluate the situation at that time, pending the resolution of the government shutdown.
Thanks to our participating clubs and to all our community as we attempt to make life a little easier for the members of the USCG.
*Gift cards will be distributed based on need at both New Haven and Coast Guard Station Eatons Neck by the respective commanders.
Checks payable to “Chief Petty Officer Association” (Memo – Shut down fund NY-Ct)
Please MAIL checks to:
Greater Huntington Council of Yacht and Boating Clubs
PO BOX 2124
Halesite, NY 11743
Thank you and Happy New Year!
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View Newsday related article: “Long Islanders rally to help those affected by government shutdown“