The Mission was founded in 1965 by Reverend J.A. Gaines, his wife, Reverend Rose Marie Gaines, and her mother, Florence E. Meringola. After witnessing local poverty conditions first hand, they invested everything that they had with the view that if they could help even one person it was worth the investment. They worked very hard and sacrificed much to build a strong community and leave a great legacy to be carried on. Their prayer was the HHRM will remain a "lighthouse" in our community. We are a church organization and subordinate to The Full Gospel Fellowship of Churches & Ministers International (The Fellowship Network).

​56 years later our work continues under the direction of the founders’ daughter,  Rev. Kimberly Gaines-Gambino who functions as the President/Pastor of Helping Hand Rescue Mission. She has also served as Pastor of Half Hollow Community Church in Dix Hills, New York from 2011-2019. She resigned from that position in January of 2020 to devote more of her time to the work of HHRM.  She is a devoted wife to her husband Andrew and loving mom & stepmom to five amazing “kids” Drew (28), SrA.Mattison (25), A.J (23)., Heather (21) & Gianna (13). Kim has a heart of love for people and enjoys writing, cooking and spending time with her family including their precious Doodle Einstein. Rev. Kim Gambino is available to speak to your organization about the beautiful work of HHRM. Call or email for details kimberlygambino@hhrm.org 631-351-6996.