Senate Resolution No. 1197

BY: Senator MARTINEZ

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
June 18, 2025, as Compassion Champion Day in the
State of New York, in conjunction with the 60th
Anniversary of United Way of Long Island and the
launch of The Compassion Fund

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commemorate significant milestones of organizations that have rendered
exemplary service to their communities and have worked to uplift those
most in need; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize
Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 18, 2025, as Compassion Champion
Day in the State of New York, in honor of United Way of Long Island's
60th Anniversary and the launch of The Compassion Fund, a transformative
initiative to assist individuals and families facing urgent financial
crises; and

WHEREAS, For six decades, United Way of Long Island has been a
pillar of compassion and community strength, mobilizing people and
resources to ensure that all residents can thrive with dignity, safety,
and opportunity; and

WHEREAS, In celebration of its 60th year of service, United Way of
Long Island is launching The Compassion Fund, a cash assistance program
designed to meet the urgent needs of those with nowhere else to
turn-whether for rent, medication, heating oil, diapers, transportation,
or other life-essential expenses; and

WHEREAS, The fund is intended to serve ALICE households-Asset
Limited, Income Constrained, Employed-who represent more than one-third
of Long Island families, including essential workers such as grocery
clerks, bus drivers, home health aides, veterans, and seniors, all
struggling to remain afloat despite their efforts; and

WHEREAS, By standing in solidarity with our neighbors during their
most difficult moments, Compassion Champions become powerful agents of
hope and resilience, offering not just help but dignity and humanity;
and

WHEREAS, United Way of Long Island's enduring mission is to mobilize
communities to action, address systemic challenges, and expand
opportunities for youth, improve public health, promote financial
stability, and build resilient, connected neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, In recognizing June 18, 2025, as Compassion Champion Day,
the State of New York affirms the importance of collective care,
empathy-driven leadership, and the vital role of community partnerships
in shaping a more equitable and compassionate future for all New
Yorkers; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 18, 2025, as

Compassion Champion Day in the State of New York, in honor of the 60th
Anniversary of United Way of Long Island and its commitment to providing
hope and support through The Compassion Fund; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York; and United Way of Long Island.