Hundreds of people came out Sunday for a fundraiser event in Patchogue hosted by Angela's House, the nonprofit group that supports families with children battling severe illnesses.
The event at 89 North Music Venue included live musical performances by local bands, plus raffles and food. Organizers say 100 percent of the proceeds will go to Angela's House, which is currently helping about 600 children across Long Island. The group also has 23 children living at and receiving care from its three specialized homes.
Bob Policastro and his wife founded Angela's House after their daughter Angela died from medical complications when she was just a year old. "We kept the mission alive, where it was, how can we move forward," he says.
Among the attendees Sunday was the Larson family, of Middle Island. Their 3-year-old daughter Emma was diagnosed with a life-threatening muscular disorder. The family says Angela's House has been a blessing at every step, and they were touched by the support at Sunday's event.
"It's amazing how the community comes together to help these kids, it really is," says Emma's mother, Dianne Larson.