05/28/2026
As it is World Hunger Day, one of our supporters, Steve Castleton, wanted to share this message, about why you should make a gift today to help feed someone in need.
Dear Friends and Supporters,
World Hunger Day is not just another date on the calendar for me. It is deeply personal.
As a child, and for a period of time as an adult, I knew firsthand what food insecurity felt like. I know what it is like to go to school hungry and to go to bed hungry. I grew up in a single-parent household after my father tragically died in an accident before my third birthday. My mother worked tirelessly to provide for our family, but like so many families struggling to survive, there were times when there simply was not enough food.
I remember the small things that families do to protect their children from the harsh realities of poverty. I remember powdered milk being poured into regular milk containers so children would not know the difference or feel embarrassed. I remember the stress, uncertainty, and quiet sacrifices that come with not knowing where the next meal will come from.
That is why the work being done by Pronto of Long Island means so much to me. Every single day, Pronto helps families throughout our community who are facing the same struggles my family once faced. They provide food, support services, educational programs, and hope to children, seniors, veterans, and working families who are trying to make ends meet during incredibly difficult times.
Food insecurity impacts far more than an empty stomach. Children who do not have reliable access to nutritious meals often face challenges in cognitive development, school readiness, academic performance, and social-emotional growth.
This World Hunger Day, I am asking you to join me in supporting Pronto of Long Island and the incredible work they do every day.
Please consider donating today and help Pronto of Long Island continue changing lives throughout our community at this link https://prontolongisland.org/donate.
Together, we can ensure fewer children go to bed hungry tonight.
With sincere gratitude,
Steven A. Castleton
Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (Ret.)