Kristy's Smile

Shortcuts

• Address
• Telephone
• Alerts
• Contact The Organization
• Claim ownership or report listing

• 

  Want your organization to be the top-listed Non Profit Organization in Huntington?

Our Story

MAKING A DIFFERENCE The spirit and generosity of those who have participated in the Kristy’s Smile Foundation fundraisers have truly given the gift of “HOPE” to those who need it most. For more than a decade, Family Service League (FSL) and the thousands of community members it serves have been the recipients of over $300,000 in donations made, initially by and now, in memory of Kristy Irvine-Ryan. Before her passing, Kristy and her friends Meredith O’Neill Hassett and Louise Rexer-Smith began the “Secret Smiles” foundation. They helped transform the living conditions of local children in need - giving items which created beautiful, comfortable bedrooms. They purchased beds, bedding, and accessories, and sent it anonymously to the family home! Over the years, the generosity has continued in her memory and the donations have enabled FSL to provide direct relief and homeless services to children, individuals, and families in crisis. Much of the funding received from Kristy’s Smile has been allocated to FSL’s Community Advocacy Information and Referral Program (CAIR) and the Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative (HIHI). FSL’s CAIR Centers help individuals and families facing crisis situations, often were services act as a final safety net. These CAIR Centers are strategically located throughout Suffolk County at multi-service FSL Family Centers in Bay Shore, Huntington Station, Mastic Beach, and Riverhead. All CAIR services are free of charge. The CAIR funds are usually directed towards underinsured and uninsured people who do not have the resources to cover unexpected, life-altering, and emergency expenses are offered to cover basic necessities such as medical prescriptions, utility bills, housing expenses, and food. The Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative (HIHI) program provides our most vulnerable neighbors - those among us who are homeless - with safe, warm place to spend the night during the bitter cold winter months. Every year roughly 28 congregations and hundreds of dedicated volunteers provide support for this vital program. One example of the incredible impact that Kristy’s Smile has made was when the funding donated was matched by another Foundation which was moved to act when they learned of efforts made by Kristy’s family and friends. The $10,000 initially donated to FSL doubled to $20,000 in real resources due to the vision and kindness of hundreds of Kristy’s Smile supporters! Kristy’s Smile Changes Lives Connie, a 32 year old woman, fled an abusive husband with her two children, ages 9 and 11. She left Pennsylvania with few possessions or money and arrived on Long Island seeking shelter at her sister Lynn’s apartment. Unfortunately, Lynn was on a fixed income and the limited space in her apartment could only be a temporary respite for Connie. Lynn, whose son was already receiving services from FSL, brought her to one of the CAIR Centers. Connie was overwhelmed. The realization that she had no access to cash or health insurance was alarming. She knew leaving her volatile situation was the right thing to do for her and, more importantly, her children. However, it is both complicated and expensive it is to start a new life with no resources. The FSL CAIR social worker immediately provided Connie with access to a food pantry and explained the alternatives offered by the Suffolk County family shelter system. FSL referred her to the Department of Social Services and in one day helped her make connections for public assistance which would provide needed food and Medicaid applications. Connie was even more appreciative of the CAIR staff for their willingness to help with the “extras”, such as school supplies and holiday assistance, all of which had positive impact on her children ability to adjust to this different environment. Currently, Connie has found part-time employment, her children are receiving counseling and they are getting ready to move into their own small apartment near her sister. Connie credits the CAIR social workers for helping her begin their journey to a new life. These services would be impossible without the support and compassion of donors like the Kristy’s Smile Foundation. Family Service League realizes that given the scope and depth of the current financial environment, it is inevitable that important programs and services may be reduced or eliminated. Generous contributions from Kristy’s Smile Foundation continue to help FSL provide critical services to Long Island families facing insurmountable economic pressures and homelessness. Thank you! For more information on FSL please visit www.fsl-li.org or call 631-470-6770 Do Make a Donation, please write a check to:

Kristy’s Smile, Inc 15 Bay Drive West Huntington, NY 11743