SUNNYSIDE – New York State Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris worked with the Sunnyside Shines BID to secure approximately 4,000 face masks for distribution through local businesses in western Queens. Senator Gianaris’ office worked with Sunnyside Shines to distribute the masks to small businesses throughout the community.

“We must continue to be vigilant about mask-wearing and social distancing until we are fully clear of this pandemic,” said Senate Deputy Leader Gianaris. “I am pleased to work with our small businesses and Sunnyside Shines to ensure our neighbors have the essential supplies they need to live safely.”

“For the past year, our small businesses and their employees have put themselves on the front line to provide essential services and a sense of normalcy to our community. We are grateful to Senator Gianaris for helping to ensure their safety as we all navigate this crisis together,” said Jaime-Faye Bean, Executive Director of Sunnyside Shines.

Since the outbreak of the covid-19 pandemic, Senator Gianaris has focused his efforts on providing supplies for local care providers and mutual aid organizations and relief for small businesses. Senator Gianaris has assisted a number of local organizations with food distribution, face masks, and hand sanitizer.

More information on relief efforts can be found on Senator Gianaris’ website: gianaris.nysenate.gov, where he has created a dedicated page for coronavirus-related resources.