Community Collaborates for Holiday Food Distribution in Staten Island

In Staten Island, the Council of Jewish Organizations, known as COJO, hosted a significant Fall Food Distribution event aimed at supporting families in need. This initiative brought together a diverse group of participants, including volunteers, local law enforcement officers from the NYPD and NYS MTA Police, and various community organizations.

Annesa Ali, the CEO and founder of Making a Change with Kindness, emphasized the importance of teaching youth about compassion through service, stating that the engagement of young volunteers in packing bags and assisting families reflected a conscious choice to show kindness.

Captain Ryan Russel, the commanding officer of NYS MTA Police District 9, highlighted that the collaboration with COJO extended beyond logistical support; it was about building community relations and demonstrating a commitment to serving Staten Island residents.

Rabbi Mendy Mirocznik, COJO's president, expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort, thanking volunteers, partners, and law enforcement for their contributions to the event's success. Assemblyman Michael Reilly recognized the integration of police and community efforts, pledging ongoing support for food pantry initiatives.

The distribution event was well-supported by several local partners, including Joe Rayski from Amazon, Gary Tai and Carina Vizhnay from Anthem, and Jenny Palaguachi from the Health Education Project. Rabbi Aharon Zeev of Aur Torah Sephardic Minyan, which hosted the distribution, shared that opening the synagogue to the community was a reflection of their values, emphasizing the inspiration garnered from members helping neighbors in need.

Iva Reuven, overseeing COJO Food Pantry and Social Services, noted that the dedication of volunteers was crucial to ensuring that families received assistance with dignity. The collaborative effort not only aimed to alleviate food insecurity but also served to strengthen community bonds, showcasing the power of collective action during the holiday season.