Mobile produce program delivers healthy food options to Long Islanders in need
Over 40 people lined up to get fresh produce through Long Island Cares' Farm to Truck program. The truck travels across Long Island, bringing locally sourced produce directly to communities.
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Food insecurity on Long Island just keeps growing and as local food banks are trying to help — they say the lines keep getting longer.
Over 40 people lined up to get fresh produce through Long Island Cares' Farm to Truck program. The truck travels across Long Island, bringing locally sourced produce directly to communities.
Monday's distribution was at the Huntington Public Library in Huntington Station.
"We bring produce, fresh food to them so it's good," Long Island Cares volunteer Donald Riker said. "They're very thankful."
Multiple tables were filled with fresh produce. The tables were nearly empty less than hour after the distribution started.
"I mostly came for my friend because she needs help and she cannot work and I brought her to get some vegetables. She has no income," Huntington resident Michele Messina said.
Long Island Cares says the program is meeting a growing need, with more Long Islanders seeking help putting fresh food on the table.
Librarians say people who come to pick up food are helping feed households of all sizes. They say the line is usually about 80 people.
"It means so much because, as we all know, fruits and vegetables are very expensive at the grocery store," said Jackie Narkiewicz, with the library. "It's much, much, much needed unfortunately."
For those waiting in line for themselves or loved ones, access to fresh produce can make a big difference.
"She's very grateful that they have this program so she could get some for her and her son," Messina said.
The Farm to Truck program will be at Friends Kitchen in Rocky Point Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
