NEW YORK — There were warm feelings of gratitude and donations at food banks and charities in New York City this Thanksgiving.
The Bowery Mission is on a mission to feed thousands of people
It’s a holiday tradition for Wanda Singh. She has been volunteering with her Bowery Mission family since 2019, before joining her family in the Bronx.
“I love it. I can’t think of a better way to give back,” Singh said Thursday.
As the need has increased this year, Chef Raffaele De Palma leads the team of around 300 people who were ready to serve 6,000 meals. He said he knows what it’s like to be a customer because he has been one for years.
“I lost everything four times. I am a former drug addict, also a former member of organized crime and I needed help,” De Palma said. “They showed me love when I needed it and so we try to do everything we can to show that same love.”
Blackened turkey, mashed sweet potatoes, apple chutney, North Carolina stuffing and mushroom gravy were among the long list of Thanksgiving offerings fit for a king. All of this was clearly enjoyed by guest Apple Vanderbilt’s dog, Tango.
“I brought my dog Tango because this is the first year I’m going to be away from my parents and family and friends because they’re in Texas,” said Vanderbilt.
“Very important, you know? I lost my wife last October,” guest Mike Horvacz added. “I’ve been looking forward to this for two weeks.”
“It’s very emotional for me to be able to give back to the community”
In addition to a full meal, each guest received pumpkin and apple pie and a care package full of health products.
“God helps us live this amazing life,” said one guest.
That’s the lesson Rhodora Soh has been teaching her four children for about a decade, taking them along as volunteers.
“It’s very emotional for me to be able to give back to the community,” says Lucas Soh.
At the Congregation Shearith Israel, just steps from the parade route at Central Park West and 70th Street, the Masbia Food Pantry coordinated a pack-a-thon. Thousands of boxes of food were prepared for 2,000 families in need through DoorDash in Brooklyn and Queens.
All were treated with the dignity they deserve.
Lisa Rozner
