Nana's Charity Has Money to Give

A new East Hampton charity foundation is soliciting applications from other East End charities in need of support, as well as from people looking to pursue a career in human services.

Nana Cares, Inc. - The Kattie O. Berkoski Foundation, which seeks to help those with medical needs, has established two programs; Charity of the Year, which will receive 15 percent of the foundation's net proceeds, and a $500 Book Scholarship. Both are available to charities and residents from Westhampton to Montauk.

Last year, Tara Loper Mansir , who worked in health care and was one of the first women on the . Nana Cares' mission is "to provide assistance, on a short term basis, to those in need during difficult financial, medical or emotional times."

From June to December, the foundation raised $18,500 and helped 10 families in need. "Not bad, but not enough," Mansir said. Individual beneficiaries are referred to Nana Cares by friends, doctors, and schools and Nana Cares will put money on accounts with doctors and pharmacies. Donations are also being distributed to the East End Hospice and the American Legion Ladies Auxillary with each getting 10 percent.

All donations are tax deductible and money is raised through special events like a .

As the Charity of the Year for the foundation's 2011-12 fiscal year, Lucia's Angels will receive more funding for Lucia's Room at , the inspiration behind Nana Cares. Mansir is looking for applicants for 2012-13. Charities eligible include those that are non-profit organizations that will put the money toward a specific use that exemplifies the mission of Nana Cares.

Specifically, Mansir said applications will be judged on whether the use of the funds will go toward programs and resources that would empower community members struggling with a medical or mental health conditions. 

The Human Services Book Scholarship is for someone who is going to school to work in the health care profession. Applicants can be high school seniors or someone going back to school, Mansir said. They just have to live between Montauk and Westhampton.

Both applications are currently available by contacting Mansir at 631-903-3861 or emailing kobfoundation@gmail.com. They are due no later than April 1.

The awards will be presented at a "Mother's Day" brunch at the on May 21 at 11 a.m. It also happens to be Berkoski's birthday. "Additionally, we want to thank Double K Management and the Kalminios family for their support and underwriting our brunch," Mansir said.