10 Outstanding Charities in Nassau County & How You Can Make a Difference

Long Island is renowned for its beautiful beaches, legendary bagels, and, let’s face it, traffic to make you doubt your existence. But under the surface of it all, there are also some incredible charities in Nassau County which are transforming lives for families, veterans, children, and our beloved pets.

If you have always felt the desire to give back but didn't know how to start, try these ten organizations that are actually getting things done—and how you can get involved without having to upend your life.

1. Island Harvest – Fighting Hunger One Meal at a Time

Over **221,190 Long Islanders** live in a state of food insecurity, and Island Harvest is leading the fight against hunger. Island Harvest takes in and distributes millions of pounds of food annually to food pantries, soup kitchens, and families.

2. The INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network) – More Than a Soup Kitchen

The INN distributes **over 300,000 meals** annually to Long Island's needy. In addition to hot meals, it also provides housing and support for those in need of getting back on their feet.

3. Long Island Cares – The Harry Chapin Food Bank**

Founded by the legendary Harry Chapin, Long Island Cares does more than merely distribute food—they provide job training, pet pantries, and emergency response programs for the needy.

4. North Shore Animal League – The World’s Largest No-Kill Rescue

This Port Washington animal shelter has rescued over **1.1 million animals** since its opening. They are focused on finding forever homes for dogs, cats, and the occasional rabbit.

5. Angela’s House – Helping Medically Frail Children

Angela's House provides **long-term in-home care for children with critical medical conditions**, enabling families to get the care they need while keeping them out of financial ruin.

6. John Theissen Children’s Foundation – Smiles for Sick Children

This organization, established since 1992, has been offering **toys, hospital visits, and monetary assistance** to ill and disadvantaged kids throughout Nassau County.

7. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island – Transforming Lives Through Mentoring

This program pairs at-risk kids with mentors who walk them through the struggles of life, demonstrating how much difference a little time and care can make.

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8. The Safe Center LI – Helping Victims of Abuse

Domestic abuse and child abuse are sad but sadly widespread. The Safe Center provides **shelter, legal support, and counseling** for victims.

9. Boots on the Ground NY – Helping Needy Vets

This Long Island-based organization provides **shelter, emergency support, and PTSD counseling** to vulnerable veterans.

10. Long Island Coalition for the Homeless – Advocating for Housing Solutions

Homelessness is a growing issue, and this agency seeks to provide **housing assistance, job training, and support** to those in need.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you've been meaning to get engaged but just haven't had the time (we get it, things get in the way), the time is finally here. Whether you have the time, money, or other resources to donate, any little bit helps. And if you're looking to put roots in a neighborhood with a history of giving back, **Dean Miller** can show you the perfect home in a neighborhood with people who care. Because a good community isn't just about nice parks and good schools—it's about people caring for each other. Let us help you get your roots in Nassau County today.