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Making a Difference in people's lives Since 1989

The mission of Thursday's Child is to develop, to coordinate, and to provide services for People Living with and affected by HIV/AIDS on Long Island.

Founded in 1989 by Sharon "Didi" Kelly, a school teacher with a big heart. During this time many people were dying of AIDS-related complications and had no where to live due to fear and discrimination from landlords or family. Didi took them into her home in West Hampton Beach where they could live out their remaining days with dignity and the warmth of her care.

Thursday's Child began as a housing and advocacy agency, but has expanded to different services over the years while always keeping to the mission to serve People Living with HIV/AIDS. The name of our agency is based on a poem. The rejoinder of the poem reads: has far to go. We have come along way over the past several decades, but the AIDS epidemic is not over. We still have far to go.

The name Thursday’s Child reflects the organization’s belief that while progress has been made, the journey toward compassion, understanding, and an AIDS-free future is ongoing. Inspired by a traditional children’s rhyme, the phrase “has far to go” serves as a reminder of both the challenges that remain and the hope that continues to guide the agency’s work.

“ Monday's child is fair of face,

Tuesday's child is full of grace

Wednesday's child is full of woe,

Thursday's child has far to go! ”