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The team at Lily Flanagan’s Pub is proud to not only run one of the largest St. Baldrick’s Day fundraisers in Babylon Village, but on Long Island as well.
Last year, the Irish pub raised over $90,000 to support the fight against childhood cancer.
“When you see the donations, it’s like being a kid seeing Mickey Mouse for the first time,” said Doreen Crowe, who owns Lily Flanagan’s with her husband Niall.
“It brings tears to your eyes.”
“I don’t think there is a family out there that doesn’t know somebody that has been affected by cancer,” added Niall, talking about why they began participating in the nationwide head-shaving efforts.
The Crowes, who started the event at the bar over a decade ago, are all set for their 11th annual St. Baldrick’s Day on Sunday, March 31.
The St. Baldrick’s party begins at noon and runs to 5 p.m.
In addition to raising money through people volunteering to get their heads shaved, there’s also a Chinese auction, DJ-spun music, bagpipes and step dancing.
“It really has become a day where the community comes together,” said Niall.
Over the last few years, several fire departments and youth athletic leagues from surrounding hamlets got involved.
“The Wyandanch Fire Department has a whole team of 10 to 15 people, who all shave,” said Lauren Crowe, who manages Lily Flanagan’s.
The mainstay pub on Deer Park Avenue expects over 120 people to get their heads buzzed Sunday.
It’s not just men who go bald for the fundraiser.
Kathleen Gagliardi of West Islip raised over $10,000 when she had all her hair lopped off last year.
“She has beautiful curly hair and shaves it all off,” said Doreen. “It was amazing.”
So far, Lily Flanagan’s has raised just over $44,000 through online donations, though most of the money raised comes the day-of.
If you can’t make the day, but still wish to donate, click here.
Top: Kathleen Gagliardi getting her hair chopped at last year’s St. Baldrick’s event at Lily Flanagan’s. (Courtesy)
