Rockin’ for the Homeless 2013 to Include Post-Sandy Donations

You might feel like there is not much to do locally, entertainment-wise, in January. But by Jan. 26 at 5:30 p.m., you’ll have the opportunity to rock out to some great local bands while helping the homeless — and those displaced by Hurricane Sandy — at the same time.

Rockin’ for the Homeless is now into its fifth year, lighting up Polish Hall in Riverhead and helping to raise funds for John’s Place Mattituck, a program to feed and house those who have found themselves without a place to stay during the winter. And this year, a portion of the proceeds will also be donated to helping Long Islanders rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

Gene Casey and The Lone Sharks, Who Are Those Guys, Rattlesnake Dawn, and Boot Scoot Boogie will play covers and original tunes just right for dancing. WLNG 92.1’s Lisa Dabrowski will MC the event, which includes food, door prizes, Chinese Auction, raffles and four hours of non-stop dance music from 6 to 10 p.m. Lisa won Dan's Papers Best of the Best "East End Personality" award for the North Fork in 2012.

“We have always be blessed, and thrilled, by the turnout for Rockin’ for the Homeless,” said Caren Heacock, Director of John’s Place Mattituck Homeless Outreach at Mattituck Presbyterian Church. “We are truly grateful.”

“Homelessness often comes quickly and unexpectedly, and Hurricane Sandy displaced 40,000 Long Islanders,” said event organizer Tom Gahan. “We’ve seen the effects first hand. There are so many heartbreaking stories…we want to do our part to continue to help those folks. I hope to see some new faces at the benefit this year. It’s an easy way for people to help make a difference.”

Ticket prices are $25 per person in advance until Jan. 25, $35 per person at the door. A limited number of guaranteed reserve tables of ten are available for $350 with advance purchase only at the Mattituck Presbyterian Church office. For office hours and directions visit http://www.mattpres.com. In addition to the church office, advance sale tickets are also available at Barth’s Drugstore, 32 East Main Street, Riverhead and at Polish Hall, 214 Marcy Avenue, Riverhead.

For details and credit card ticket purchases visit http:// www.rockinforthehomeless.org