On July 1, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads was joined by Senator Dean Murray, legislative interns, and volunteers for the 3rd Annual Senate Farm Day of Action at Island Harvest’s Healthy Harvest Farm in Brentwood. The annual initiative, proudly spearheaded by Senator Rhoads, brings Long Island senators together for a hands-on day of service focused on hunger relief, sustainability, and supporting local food systems.

In partnership with Island Harvest, one of Long Island’s leading hunger relief organizations, the group rolled up their sleeves and got to work harvesting fresh berries and vegetables, weeding, preparing farmland, and supporting the ongoing operation of the farm. The fresh produce harvested through these efforts helps provide nutritious food to Long Islanders facing food insecurity and can go from the farm to the dinner table as soon as the next day.

“Fighting hunger requires more than just talking about the problem—it requires action, compassion, and a commitment to serving our communities,” said State Senator Steve Rhoads (District 5). “The Senate Farm Day of Action is a great reminder that even a few hours of hands-on work can make a meaningful difference for families across Long Island. By supporting Island Harvest’s Healthy Harvest Farm, we are helping provide fresh, locally grown food to our neighbors while strengthening the partnerships that make our communities stronger. I am grateful to Senator Murray, our interns, volunteers, and the entire Island Harvest team for their dedication to this important mission.” 

Participants were given a behind-the-scenes look at how meaningful change happens on the ground through Island Harvest’s Healthy Harvest Farm, which is remarkably operated by one dedicated staff member, Cassidy, alongside a committed team of volunteers. Cassidy provided invaluable guidance throughout the day, sharing insight into the farm’s operations and the important role it plays in supporting Long Islanders in need.

Senator Rhoads extended his sincere appreciation to Cassidy, Island Harvest President & CEO Randi Shubin Dresner, and the entire Island Harvest team for their leadership, hospitality, and continued commitment to addressing food insecurity throughout Long Island. 

“One of the greatest strengths of so many communities on Long Island is their willingness to come together to help our neighbors in need. I was proud to volunteer at this year's Island Harvest's Long Island Senators Farm Day, where we helped plant and prepare crops that will provide fresh, nutritious food to Long Islanders experiencing food insecurity. Every seed planted represents hope for families who may not know where their next meal will come from. Thank you to all the volunteers who continue to dedicate their time and energy to this important mission. By working together, we can help ensure that more of our neighbors have access to healthy food while strengthening the spirit of compassion and service that makes Long Island such a special place to call home,” said State Senator Dean Murray (District 3).

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of Sens. Dean Murray (3rd District) and Steve Rhoads (5th District), not just in Albany and their districts, but here at our Healthy Harvest Farm,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, president & CEO of Island Harvest Food Bank. “Our hardworking, community-minded senators spent the morning harvesting wholesome and nutritious locally grown fruits and vegetables that will feed our neighbors across Long Island. We always look forward to their Senate Day of Service with us, and we invite all our elected representatives to spend time at our farm, centrally located at the Sisters of St. Joseph campus in Brentwood.”