Glen Cove North Shore Sheltering Program in 'Great Need'

Like the population it serves, Glen Cove’s North Shore Sheltering Program is at risk. 

The shelter, which aims to provide temporary and safe overnight shelter to homeless men in winter, is in “great need,” and may not open in the winter of 2014-15, according to the shelter’s website. 

The program is holding an open house fundraiser, Sunday, March 23, from 4-6 p.m.

Gustavo Gitlin, NSSP’s program president and cantor of Congregation Tifereth Israel in Glen Cove, told Newsday that there is “barely enough money to finish the season.”  

Privately funded, the shelter, which is located in the Parish Hall of First Presbyterian Church in Glen Cove, receives no government aid, and is staffed by more than 130 volunteers. It serves as many as 25 men a night, according to Newsday.

Created by local clergy, NSSP not only assists those who are homeless but also aims to direct people in need of housing, medical care and treatment to the appropriate agencies and facilities. The program’s board of directors consists of members of local religious and community leaders.

The program was launched after two men died having suffered the cold winter elements during the winter of 1996.

The suggested donation for the open house fundraiser is $50, and shelter volunteers say all donations are gratefully accepted.

Those who cannot attend the fundraiser but wish to contribute can send financial contributions to North Shore Sheltering Program, P.O. Box 415, Glen Cove, NY 11542.