Mets' Marcus Stroman helping with Long Island COVID-19 response

The coronavirus pandemic has tak- en a major hit to the economy. Many businesses have had to resort to pay cuts, layoffs, and some are approaching bankruptcy. These unfortunate truths are leading more and more people to turn to food banks to feed themselves and their children.

What is fortunate, though, is the humanitarianism of individuals like New York Mets pitcher Marcus Stroman, who grew up on Long Island. Stroman’s Height Doesn’t Measure Heart Foundation has encouraged his fans to donate to Long Island Cares as well as the Food Bank for New York City.

“Our food bank partners are committed to ensuring New Yorkers in need continue to have access to meals during times of crisis. Your support will help keep meals on the table for New Yorkers during this critical time,” HDMH Foundation wrote on its website for COVID-19 response.

Stroman has also dedicated half of the proceeds from his merchandise store to be split between the two food banks. Long Island Cares CEO Paule Pachter expressed his gratitude for Stroman and the HDMH Foundation’s contributions.

“We were completely caught by surprise,” Pachter said. “For [Stroman], as a Long Islander, to identify what we are doing and his willingness to support it is just incredible. We are so thankful to him because not only is he able to reach a million people through his social media, but he is the type of guy who can encourage others to do the same. That is very important, especially in the middle of what we are dealing with now with COVID-19 and increased unemployment and furloughs and layoffs.”