Two women who served on the boards of disaster relief organizations in the wake of Superstorm Sandy decided to continue their work to support Long Island families. Together, Theresa DePietto and Jennifer Aulino founded Hope Floats, a non-profit providing financial and logistical assistance to Long Island families affected by medical emergencies, disabilities, loss, and poverty.
At the beginning of the school year, Theresa, Jennifer and a team of volunteers assembled and distributed packets to families of the Babylon school where Theresa’s daughter Ava is a student. Each packet provided educational information about food allergies, a copy of the Safe Snack Guide, and samples of two peanut butter alternatives, SunButter and WowButter (both members of the SnackSafely.com Manufacturer Partnership.)
FiOS1’s Heroes On Our Island aired a segment highlighting the wonderful work of Hope Floats. The video provides a great primer for those who wish to bring awareness of food allergies to their respective school districts. You can see the 6 minute video segment in the player above.
To find our more about Hope Floats and to donate or volunteer, visit their site by clicking here.