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Health & Fitness

Northport High School Music Students Raise Money For Homeless

The Northport High School students lent their voices and hearts to help raise money for the Long Island Coalition For the Homeless ...

The Northport High School music department helped raise nearly $400 for the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless in an event held over two nights, December 19th and 20th. The music students of Northport High School lent their voices and hearts in this compassionate effort.

Led by the music department chairman, Izzet Mergen, the money will be sent to the Long Island Coalition For the Homeless to help aid those victimized by Hurricane Sandy.

The housing situation on Long Island has taken a tumble due to the storm’s impact. An estimated 600,000 homes in the tri-state area were damaged or lost. Many people will have to start over while others are still homeless.

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“Hurricane Sandy has had a tremendous impact on the already tight housing market on Long Island,” said Greta Guarton, Executive Director for the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless. “With tens of thousands of housing units damaged or destroyed, it is extremely difficult for Long Islanders to find adequate housing.”

“I think it’s important that our students be involved and aware of what has happened,” said Mergen. “We have a wonderful music program here in Northport and what better way to help others than through their talents.”

Find out what's happening in Northportwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Guarton spoke of the urgency to help others, especially with the temperatures dropping.

“Many of those who permanently lost their homes were the ones who were already on the fringes -- those who had been lucky enough to rent small apartments in their landlord’s homes,” said Guarton. “Those apartments have now been destroyed, and many landlords have opted to make improvements that will price their former tenants out of their homes. We are trying to find affordable, safe housing for thousands of Long Islanders.”

The music students of Northport High School did a tremendous service to the Long Island community. I wish to thank the many residents who stopped by the table to lend their positive thoughts and donations to this worthy cause. 

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