Consuming those pancakes, helping the children

More than 400 adults, children and special needs people were served at Peninsula Kiwanis’ 20th annual Christmas Dream Pancake Breakfast on Sept. 30 at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Inwood.

Begun over 20 years ago by Peninsula Kiwanis members Pete and Mike Sobol, Christmas Dream started out providing toys to children of all faiths during the holiday season and has expanded to include food, underwear, socks, hats, gloves, snacks for school, backpacks and school supplies for children in need. Last year, Christmas Dream presented more than 650 items to children.

“The people in the Peninsula Kiwanis do the things we do because we care,” said longtime member Harry Levitt. “[These are] some of the most dedicated individuals I ever had the pleasure to know.”

Over 30 individuals and storeowners supported the event with placemat ads and all of the food was donated by individuals and merchants in the community.

The first prize raffle was a 32-inch LED HDTV, second prize was a $250 American Express gift card, third prize was a $150 gas gift card and fourth prize was $100 in New York state Lottery tickets.

“Everyone should be real proud to be a member of this club,” said Past President Christopher McGrath, referring to Peninsula Kiwanis.

Contributions can be forwarded to: The Christmas Dream, c/o Peninsula Kiwanis, P.O. Box 301, Hewlett, NY 11557.