Dear East Rockaway School District Families,  

As a district, we recognize that some families in our community are facing challenging times, especially with recent updates regarding potential changes to SNAP benefits effective November 1. We understand that this may bring added stress and uncertainty for some families, and we want you to know that you are not alone. 
 
The East Rockaway School District remains deeply committed to supporting our students and families in every way possible. We encourage anyone experiencing difficulty to reach out, our schools are a resource, and our support staff are here to help connect you with available assistance and community supports. 
 
Local resources such as the Food Pantry at Our Lady of Peace and Saint Raymond’s are available to help families in need of food or essential items. Additional community organizations that provide immediate support include: 

Long Island Cares – The Harry Chapin Food Bank
Main hub for emergency food distribution across Nassau County 
Website: www.licares.org | Phone: 631-582-FOOD 

Island Harvest Food Bank
Provides food, training, and logistical support to school-based and community pantries 
Website: www.islandharvest.org | Phone: 516-294-8528 

Food Rescue US – Long Island
Connects surplus food from local businesses to nearby pantries and schools 
Website: www.foodrescue.us 

Family & Children’s Association (FCA)
Offers emergency food assistance, housing stabilization, mental health, and family support programs 
Website: www.familyandchildrens.org | Phone: 516-746-0350 

Nassau County Food Pantry Resource Guide
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OaU9cqxzDJk3BhyV_81m5Hf08FmIs0ov/view
Text your zip code to (631) 450-3775 to receive a list of nearby locations
 
In addition, our dedicated team of school social workers and counselors are available to provide guidance and connect you with further community services as needed. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our support staff: 
 
East Rockaway Junior Senior High School
Social Workers

• Mrs. Amy Weissman-Canale, AWeissmancanale@eastrockawayschools.org, (516) 887-8300 ext 430
• Mrs. Kristen Mednick, kmednick@eastrockawayschools.org, (516)887-8300 ext 427

School Counselors (516)887-8300 ext 453

• Mr. John Madden, jmadden@eastrockawayschools.org
• Mrs. Rebecca Mantle, rmantle@eastrockawayschools.org
• Mrs. Jennifer Melecio, jmelecio@eastrockawayschools.org
• Ms. Donna Robbins, drobbins@eastrockawayschools.org

Centre Avenue

• Ms. Michelle Picciolo, mpicciolo@eastrockawayschools.org, (516)887-8300, ext 227 (social worker)
• Ms. Lindsay Maleska, lmaleska@eastrockawayschools.org, (516)887-8300, ext 227 (school counselor)

Rhame Avenue

• Ms. Maureen Schutta, mschutta@eastrockawayschools.org, (516)887-8300 ext 327
• Ms. Lindsay Maleska, lmaleska@eastrockawayschools.org, (516)887-8300 ext 327

 
We understand that difficult times can affect families in many ways, and we are here to help however we can. Please reach out if you or someone you know in our school community could benefit from additional support. 
 
With care and compassion,
 
 

John Madden
Director of School Counseling