The Corridor Counts (TCC) and Starz of Tomorrow teamed up for a day of giving back to the community.
Rakea Hightower-Finch, the Special Projects Coordinator at TCC and president of Starz of Tomorrow, Taishawn Blanton, vice president of Starz Of Tomorrow, and Raquan Williamson, founder of Starz of Tomorrow, driven by their passion for helping those in need, organized the “Thankful Corridor” event to provide meals and essentials to the underprivileged, homeless and families facing difficult circumstances throughout Hempstead.
“We have been making some remarkable impact in the community by joining other nonprofit organizations such as our own, to give back and to help those in need as much as we can,” Hightower-Finch said.
The group began the day on Nov. 26 by preparing 50 hot meals for over 100 individuals in need. Clothing, snacks and bottled water were also distributed, ensuring that the recipients had more than just one meal.
After this, they went to the Horizon Hearts shelter, where they delivered 30 hot meals, 30 snacks and 60 bottles of water. At 200 Terrace Avenue, they personally delivered turkeys and non-perishable foods to residents. The team even made their way to the Hempstead bus terminal, a gathering place for many homeless individuals, offering them hot meals, snacks, water and clothing.
“I had a little area in the back where they could feel like they were shopping,” Hightower-Finch said, “so they were able to leave with clothes, shoes, snacks, and also a full belly.”
Hightower-Finch reflected on how these efforts stemmed from inspiration from her 15-year-old daughter, who, after seeing children experiencing homelessness in Georgia when they lived there, wanted to do something to help. When they returned to New York, Hightower-Finch became an active advocate and community leader and works to connect people with resources and support. She also works with Blanton and Williamson to spread their reach further throughout Hempstead and surrounding areas.
“I sincerely appreciate everyone who extended their support, whether through donations made by mail, in person, or in other ways, for the event,” Hightower-Finch said. “We are truly thankful for their contributions.”