Where love and kindess abound

Live music and chatter filled the open space at Mulcahy’s Bar and Concert Hall in Wantagh as part of Freeport-based CoLoKi’s fifth annual “Fun” Raiser on April 3.

The event is organized every year by volunteers who work with Liz O’Shaughnessy, of Merrick, who founded the non-profit CoLoKi (Compassion, Love and Kindness) to operate the Freeport Trailer. The work hiring center helps undocumented immigrants find jobs and learn English, and provides pro bono legal aid. The fundraiser included a Chinese auction, a silent auction, and raffles for elaborate baskets and gift certificates.

Not only does the fundraiser provide a platform for the surrounding communities to become familiar with the Freeport Trailer and CoLoKi’s mission, but it also offers entertainment and food to many of the workers who use the trailer as a resource. Many of them, like Elmer Morales and Patricio Velasquez, attended the fundraiser to show their support for the Freeport Trailer and to enjoy the drinks and food.

Morales, who emigrated from Guatemala, said he came to the United States in search of a better future. “Things were rough in my country,” he said in his native Spanish. “I wanted a better future for me and my kids.”

Morales said he heard about the Freeport Trailer through a friend. “A friend told me about all of the perks and help that they offer at the Freeport Trailer,” he said. “So I gave it a try, and it’s been the best decision I’ve made for myself and for my family. We get so much help, we learn English, and we find jobs. That’s what it’s all about.”

Velasquez agreed. “I am so humbled and grateful for all of the help that I have gotten from Miss Liz and everybody at the trailer,” he said in Spanish. He placed a hand over his heart and added, “I owe everything to the trailer, to Miss Liz, to my English teacher Miss Jenny. They’ve given me an opportunity to make the most out of a situation that many people misunderstand.”