Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk, Inc. Marks 50 Years of Service to County

PATCHOGUE, NY – The Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk, Inc. (EOC of Suffolk) is marking its 50th anniversary of service to Suffolk County families and communities, with a focus on youth development, community revitalization, health care, housing, advocacy, and the coordination of human and social services provided through a range of public and private sources.

“It has been our organization’s great privilege to promote the well-being of families and communities in Suffolk County for five decades,” said Adrian Fassett, CEO of EOC of Suffolk. “Even in America’s most-wealthy communities, it remains essential for society to help elevate the poor, the disadvantaged, and the troubled in our midst. I give praise to our board, our committed staff, and to the countless volunteers who assist our work, for their dedication to community improvement.”

“I am delighted to congratulate EOC of Suffolk upon reaching this 50-year milestone,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “The organization plays an invaluable role in enriching the quality of life for residents throughout Suffolk County, and in building stronger families and stronger communities. I would especially like to single out EOC of Suffolk’s outstanding work in providing housing and support services to our county’s returning military Veterans and their families.”

“EOC of Suffolk deserves our praise for the vital work it performs in promoting self-sufficiency and economic security within our county’s most needy communities,” said DuWayne Gregory, Presiding Officer of the Suffolk County Legislature. “This unique organization leverages a sophisticated array of tools and resources that help lead struggling localities along the path to self-empowerment. Their extraordinary programs help make Suffolk County a better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

Founded in 1967 as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s nationwide “War on Poverty,” EOC of Suffolk has since found itself steadily adapting its programs and its strategic approaches to meet Suffolk County’s ever-evolving needs.

“We work to broaden housing opportunities, improve public health, boost employability, and assist Veterans,” said Mr. Fassett. “Yet EOC of Suffolk has always successfully changed with the times. I am proud that we have always been able to adapt and fine-tune our programs so that our services always remain relevant to current conditions.”

Among current EOC of Suffolk programs are its Targeted Prevention and Supportive Service in support of those with HIV/AIDS; the SNUG Violence Prevention initiative that focuses on preventing gun violence; the “Way To Grow” Child Care Learning Center in East Patchogue; the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program; Sensationally Sweet, a gourmet candy and gift shop in the Village of Patchogue; its Youth and Adolescent Services initiative; and, its newly launched Charitable Bail Fund Program, which helps low-income defendants secure bail funds when they are accused of a misdemeanor.

A 50th anniversary gala celebration is planned for later this year. For more information about the Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk, Inc., go to www.EOC-Suffolk.com, www.TheWayToGrow.org, and www.Sensationally-Sweet.com.