Military Order of the Purple Heart, to help raise awareness of the obstacles our veterans face when returning to civilian life, and to raise funds to assist veterans in need on Long Island. Comprised of all volunteers, 100% of all net proceeds will go to assist local veterans as Long Island has the highest population of veterans in New York State, and the second highest in the country. In the face of conflict, adversity and loss, our soldiers march on in the name of freedom and honor so that we may enjoy all that this great nation has to offer. When they return to our communities, let us welcome them with open arms, heartfelt thanks and a place to call home.
We have raised enough funds to purchase a distressed single family home, made the renovations and the home was deeded to a Long Island Veteran. The Veteran selected to receive the home, served multiple tours in Afghanistan where he sustained injuries, was honorably discharged and was a Purple Heart recipient. The Veteran made less than the Long Island median income but as there is no mortgage payment; he has the ability to pay the property taxes, insurance, utilities and upkeep of home. The home was awarded to the Veteran not with the greatest injury but the greatest need as long as the Veteran meet the criteria. Our panel of veterans from several veteran organizations, VFW, American Legion, etc.. made the final decision.
To date, thousands of Purple Hearts have been displayed across Long Island. Students from school districts including Commack, Elwood, Sayville, Kings Park and more, plus volunteers from organizations like PSEG®, 7-Eleven®, Home Depot®, Allstate®, Long Island Board of REALTORS®, USA Insulation®, Long Island Hospitality and Tourism®, Long Island chapter of the Interior Design Society, and more. Each has participated in the Purple Heart campaign, pledging at least a dollar for each heart signed and displayed in support of veterans.
In June 2019, we awarded the home and CBS local News and News 12 filmed the presentation. They next day CBS Evening News (National) picked up the story and aired it. Below is the link to the CBS Evening News national coverage. We are looking to a smaller project next if you know of a local veteran in need. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/purple-heart-veteran-kevin-palacios-surprised-with-home-of-his-own-2019-06-26/?fbclid=IwAR0tBo0YxGMcmtFBlj0sEhjN2UD4MgGVHQIyCZLa5-sM3OjD72agphIuftc Now that we have completed the home renovations and awarded it to a local veteran family, our plans are to continue our fundraising efforts to create a general fund available to assist all Long Island Veterans in need. We will continue to work in conjunction with the VFWs, American Legions, and other Veteran support organizations to identify Veterans in need and assist them when possible.
Our goal is to paint Long Island Purple by asking businesses, schools, organizations and government offices to participate in the Fairway Foundation’s Purple Heart Campaign by encouraging employees and patrons to donate one dollar per heart and display to raise awareness and share on social media #FairwayFoundaton . The Foundation supplies the hearts and the funds collected will be used locally to assist OUR Long Island Veterans.
We also are audited by the Suffolk County Comptroller’s office each year and have had our Veteran Non-Profit Certification since it’s onset. Using the proceeds of our efforts since 2014.
