East Meadow Residents Give Back to Those Hit Hardest by Sandy

Robin Fitzpatrick remembered when a fire destroyed her East Meadow home in 2008.

"I know what it's like to wake up with no roof over your head, no underwear or even a toothbrush," she said. "The East Meadow community helped my family tremendously then and now I want to do the same for others."

After dealing with the emotional toll of Hurricane Sandy, the loss of personal possessions and six days without power, Fitzpatrick and many other residents donated hundreds of items to the East Meadow Fire Department's Disaster Drive for Hurricane Sandy Victims on Sunday.

Fitzpatrick dropped off children's winter clothing with her kids, Kirsten and Jonathan.

"You learn to appreciate everything that you have and the importance of giving back," Fitzpatrick said. "This is just an amazing community."

The fire department will give the items to the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army, who will then distribute them to the communities hit the hardest on Long Island.

Kevin McWilliams and his wife, Kelly, have been without power since Monday and are expecting their first child in about a month. The two donated baby formula, water and sanitizers.

"We moved to East Meadow in September and we just want to help out the community," Kevin McWilliams said.

Tara Moraitis donated pillows, blankets, coats and toilet paper.

"Some people have lost everything and have nothing," she said. "We are lucky to have everything that we have. This is just so sad."

Members of the fire department were working hard on Sunday, collecting items and separating them. Many of the fire officials are still dealing with the personal effects of Sandy.

"I am incredibly proud of my members," East Meadow Fire Chief John Priest said. "They are still doing this important work while responding to community calls."

Ex Fire Captain Malinda Posillico said that she admires the residents of East Meadow.

"This is such a blessing,' she said. "People are pouring their hearts out and are dealing with so much. They have been without and know that others have it much worse. This is just a wonderful community."

Residents can donate items to The East Meadow Fire Department's Disaster Drive for Hurricane Sandy Victims until midnight on Sunday and again on Monday starting at 9 a.m.