You Can Help Long Island Coast Guard Members During The Shutdown

The United States Coast Guard, which has many stations on Long Island, is not getting paid during the government shutdown. This is leaving many families tightening their belts and figuring out how they're going to afford bills, gas, food and more.

But Long Island is full of generous people, and you can help those who help you by donating to the Long Island chapter of the Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association. The CPOA is a group that represents the Coast Guard and other veterans, helping to promote their issues, and also giving to members in times of need. The group holds many events throughout the year to help the communities it's in, like the toy drive it just wrapped up before the shutdown began.

"Now, during the shutdown, there's a bigger time of need," said Bryan Mastrangelo, the vice president of the CPOA Long Island chapter. "It's really heartwarming the way the public has been treating us."

Mastrangelo said that Long Island communities and business have rallied together to help the Coast Guard member, which is forced to work without pay. Many people have reached out to donate, and that is money the CPOA can give to its members to help with everyday expenses.

Anyone who is interested in donating can send a check made out to the Long Island CPOA to PO Box 71, West Sayville, NY, 11796. You can also reach out to the Long Island CPOA at its Facebook page.

The CPOA is a 501c3 organization, so donations made to them can be written off on your taxes.

"I would like to thank all of our Long Island communities for the outpouring of support over the past several days," Long Island chapter President Tony Martinez wrote on Facebook. "Your help has been tremendous as you have found ways to help families during an unprecedented government shutdown."

Photo: Renee Schiavone/Patch