Government

Over $27 Million in Unused Gift Cards Recovered by NYS Comptroller DiNapoli

Published

2 years ago

January 18, 2024

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY – New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli is urging New Yorkers to keep track of the gift cards they received during the holidays. Unused gift card balances can be turned over to the Comptroller’s Office of Unclaimed Funds (OUF) after five years of inactivity. In 2023, the Office recovered over $27 million from gift cards. For this reason, everyone should check for unclaimed funds.

“Many people don’t realize that after 5 years, unused gift card balances are turned over to the Comptroller’s Office of Unclaimed Funds,” DiNapoli said. “Now is a great time to check for unclaimed funds and use those gift cards you received over the holidays to avoid possible inactivity fees or having the money turned over to my office.”

Statewide, New York City residents are owed the most in unclaimed funds stemming from gift cards, totaling nearly $40 million, followed by Long Island residents at $10.8 million and Hudson Valley residents at $7.4 million.

DiNapoli’s office returns an average of $1.5 million in unclaimed funds every day and works with retailers to identify the owners of unused gift cards. Retailers can provide OUF with a name if the person registers the gift card online, if they have been issued a refund, or if the card was purchased with an existing store account. If the owner’s information is not known to a New York retailer, it will report the card details, such as card number and balance, which can be used by the recipient to claim the balance. The Comptroller’s office also sends letters to newly reported owners of unclaimed funds.

DiNapoli reminds gift card recipients to read the fine print on the card for details about any fees and expiration dates, and to consider registering the card with the retailer.

DiNapoli’s office has more than $18.4 billion in unclaimed funds.

Government

Secure Shred Event: Safely Dispose of Personal Documents Near You

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Residents are invited to safely dispose of sensitive documents at an upcoming Community Paper Shredding Event, designed to help protect against identity theft while promoting environmentally responsible recycling.

The event will provide a convenient and secure way for community members to shred personal documents such as old bank statements, tax records, medical paperwork, and other confidential materials. All documents will be shredded on-site by a professional shredding service, ensuring that personal information is fully destroyed.

In addition to helping residents safeguard their private information, the event supports sustainability efforts by ensuring that shredded paper is properly recycled.

Residents are encouraged to bring documents in boxes or bags. Please note that paper clips and staples are acceptable; however, large binder clips, folders, and non-paper materials should be removed in advance.

To allow as many residents as possible to participate, there may be a limit on the number of boxes per household.

This event is open to the general public, and no businesses will be permitted. See flyer for dates in your town.

Government

Clarkstown Honors 2026 Women of Distinction for Leadership and Community Service

Published

3 weeks ago

March 28, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Town of Clarkstown proudly celebrated its second annual Women of Distinction Ceremony for 2026, honoring local women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to the community.

Supervisor George Hoehmann selected two honorees, while each Town Council member recognized one woman from their ward. The honorees were recognized for their contributions to volunteerism, public service, and nonprofit work across Clarkstown and Rockland County.

“This year’s honorees embody the very best of our community,” said Supervisor Hoehmann. “Their compassion, leadership, and commitment to service continue to inspire us all.”

2026 Honorees

Breda Lyons and Catherine Levins (Supervisor’s Honorees)
Owners of River Court On Main in New City, Lyons and Levins have combined entrepreneurship with philanthropy, supporting numerous local charities, organizing drives for children in need, and giving back to community organizations.

Roberta Bangs (Ward 3 – Councilman Don Franchino)
A dedicated volunteer, Bangs has served as President of Hi-Tor Animal Shelter and the Nanuet Civic Association, while supporting organizations such as People to People and the Nanuet Ambulance Corps.

Jane Provenzano (Ward 2 – Councilman Mike Graziano)
A longtime advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities, Provenzano founded PRO U ED, a program for adults with special needs, and serves as Vice President of the Congers Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.

Roxanne Perrone (Ward 4 – Councilman Bob Axelrod)
Perrone has played a key role in supporting New City’s small business community and serves as a trustee of the New City Library and member of the Clarkstown Planning Board.

Maura Donoghue (Ward 1 – Councilman Jon Valentino)
Donoghue oversees housing programs for the Rockland County Department of Social Services, managing initiatives that support vulnerable residents, including Section 8 housing and emergency services.

The Town of Clarkstown extended its congratulations and gratitude to all of the honorees for their lasting impact on the community.