J 1197: Commemorating the 60th Anniversary of United Way of Long Island on June 18, 2025

 Senate Resolution No. 1197 BY: Senator MARTINEZ MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 18, 2025, as Compassion Champion Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the 60th Anniversary of United Way of Long Island and the launch of The Compassion Fund WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and commemorate significant milestones of organizations that have rendered exemplary service to their communities and have worked to uplift those most in need; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 18, 2025, as Compassion Champion Day in the State of New York, in honor of United Way of Long Island's 60th Anniversary and the launch of The Compassion Fund, a transformative initiative to assist individuals and families facing urgent financial crises; and WHEREAS, For six decades, United Way of Long Island has been a pillar of compassion and community strength, mobilizing people and resources to ensure that all residents can thrive with dignity, safety, and opportunity; and WHEREAS, In celebration of its 60th year of service, United Way of Long Island is launching The Compassion Fund, a cash assistance program designed to meet the urgent needs of those with nowhere else to turn-whether for rent, medication, heating oil, diapers, transportation, or other life-essential expenses; and WHEREAS, The fund is intended to serve ALICE households-Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed-who represent more than one-third of Long Island families, including essential workers such as grocery clerks, bus drivers, home health aides, veterans, and seniors, all struggling to remain afloat despite their efforts; and WHEREAS, By standing in solidarity with our neighbors during their most difficult moments, Compassion Champions become powerful agents of hope and resilience, offering not just help but dignity and humanity; and WHEREAS, United Way of Long Island's enduring mission is to mobilize communities to action, address systemic challenges, and expand opportunities for youth, improve public health, promote financial stability, and build resilient, connected neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, In recognizing June 18, 2025, as Compassion Champion Day, the State of New York affirms the importance of collective care, empathy-driven leadership, and the vital role of community partnerships in shaping a more equitable and compassionate future for all New Yorkers; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 18, 2025, as Compassion Champion Day in the State of New York, in honor of the 60th Anniversary of United Way of Long Island and its commitment to providing hope and support through The Compassion Fund; and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York; and United Way of Long Island.