Paula Miritello, who has been helping hundreds of area residents by bringing them food, clothing and furniture through her non-profit organization My Brother Vinny, now needs the public's help.
Miritello is hoping to purchase a van which would ease her work of continuing to help even more people. She has started an online fundraising effort through GoFundMe.com with the goal of raising $15,000.
"To have our very own van would be amazing," Miritello wrote. "The freedom to be able to help when needed and not reliant on loaners and rentals would be amazing."
Miritello founded My Brother Vinny as a way to honor the memory of her youngest brother Vincent Miritello who passed away in 2000 at age 20. He had cerebral palsy and did not walk and talk throughout his life.
"He is the biggest influence in my life and our mission is in place to advocate and help others whether people or furry friends that need a voice, assistance and joy in their lives," she said. "We are together leaving a legacy of good throughout the community and hopefully one day the world."
In her brother's honor, Miritello has been collecting food and winter coats which she distributes to veterans, outreach groups, shelters and families in need in Westchester County and the neighboring vicinities.
Miritello also runs an annual My Brother Vinny/Special Olympics Walk and helps local animal shelters and rescue groups in the aid and support of animal welfare.
"We establish and implement community based events geared towards improving the enjoyment of life, happiness and health of the emotionally, physically and mentally disabled," she said.
Since starting the online fundraising effort, the support from the community has been tremendous, but more money is needed for the purchase of the van.
"Helping us raise the funds necessary to have our own van is an essential need," she wrote.
Like all charitable organizations, Miritello said, they have operational costs throughout the day-to-day services they perform. She said she needs the community's help and every little bit of money would help.
"We are requesting a tax deductible monetary donation in even the smallest amount which will assist us in our operations that make reaching all those we help possible," she said.
To read more about My Brother Vinny and make a donation toward the goal of purchasing a van, click here.
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