HUNTINGTON, NY
Community members, local leaders, and advocates gathered at Heckscher Park on Sunday, April 12, 2026, for a ceremony centered on remembrance, resilience, and recovery. The Hope & Healing Statue Blessing Ceremony brought residents together to honor lives impacted by addiction.
Hosted by Councilwoman Theresa Mari, artist Susan Buroker, and the Town of Huntington Opioid & Addiction Task Force, the event marked the continued presence of the sculpture installed last summer, now a visible symbol for individuals and families affected by substance use disorder.
Pastor Matthew Means of Old First Presbyterian Church spoke about witnessing the project take shape from nearby,“I have the privilege of having an office space right in the back corner of this building,” he said. “When this sculpture was first announced and the work began, I got the chance to text Sharon all the time about the progress and what a joy it was. Now, having had this sculpture present, I can tell you that what I see week by week is the embodiment of the hope and healing that we hoped for in creating this space.”
Following remarks from town officials, task force members, and a blessing by Pastor Means, a plaque was presented honoring former Town of Huntington Councilman Sal Ferro for his dedication to addressing addiction in the community. His work was recognized as part of Huntington’s efforts around awareness, prevention, and recovery.
Buroker spoke directly to that impact, “When many chose to look away, you chose to step forward,” she said. “When addiction was something whispered about in the shadows, you had the strength to bring it into the light. You recognized that this is not just an issue, but a disease that affects families.”
As the program wrapped up, attention shifted back to the sculpture and the plaque recognizing Ferro’s contribution, now part of the park and the town’s ongoing work.
Photography, Videography and Video Editing by Dana E. Richter.
