“Crafting the state budget is one of my most important responsibilities as your voice in Albany, and it’s one I take seriously. I’m committed to making sure our communities get their fair share, which is why I fought for a budget proposal that funds critical programs that will help our families get ahead and protect our most vulnerable.

“For many hardworking members of our community, making ends meet comes with impossible decisions. No family should be forced to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table. That’s why I fought for $20,000 for Island Harvest, the largest hunger relief organization on Long Island. The proposal also provides funding to Make the Road New York, an organization that offers numerous programs such as legal, health and referral services to families impacted by violence as well as adult literacy, youth development and civic engagement programs for immigrant families. These organizations change lives for the better, and I’ll continue fighting to ensure Long Islanders get the support and services they need in the final state budget.”