Empowering Local Food Pantries with Generous Funding

Distribution of Funds

The funds were awarded at a significant ceremony held at Mt. Moriah AME Church on 116-20 Francis Lewis Blvd. in Cambria Heights. This allocation represents a 75% boost from last year, highlighting the growing need for local food pantries and support for migrants in emergency shelters. The funding will be utilized in various ways, such as supporting traditional food pantries run by houses of worship, senior food delivery programs, and food service initiatives at schools and senior centers.

The recipients of the funding include Mt. Olivet Baptist Church of Hollis with $5,000, Greater Bethel Community Development Corporation receiving $34,411, Metropolitan New York Coordinating Council on Jewish Poverty, Inc. with $20,000, Mt. Moriah African Methodist Episcopal Church getting $15,000, Save The People Corp with $5,000, River Fund with $10,000, BHALO, Inc. with $10,000, Real Veggie Foundation, Inc. with $5,000, The Campaign Against Hunger, Inc. with $20,000, Bethel Gospel Tabernacle Church with $5,000, Greater Springfield Community Church with $15,000, Second Chance Agape Worship Center with $10,000, St. Albans Baptist Church with $5,000, and Vets, Inc. with $10,000. This diverse range of organizations will be able to make a significant impact in their respective communities.

New Funding Formula

The funding breakdown comes from a new equity-based funding formula created by the New York City Council. This formula aims to better allocate resources to districts with substantial food insecurity. Neighborhoods within Williams' district have been identified as having a high hunger rate, ranking second across Queens. This new approach ensures that the much-needed funds are directed to where they are most needed.

Dr. Maria Hubbard, the Executive Director of Greater Bethel Community Development Corporation/AGAPE Community Outreach, emphasized the importance of the increased funding. She stated that with this additional support, they can expand their reach to seniors and families struggling with food insecurity in Southeast Queens. This shows the direct impact that the funding will have on the lives of those in need.

Community Impact

Pastor Robert Lowe of Mt. Moriah AME Church highlighted the commitment of local faith-based organizations to helping the city's most vulnerable. He expressed that in times of need, their role in supporting the most vulnerable is crucial. Council Member Williams' dedication to their mission helps ensure that no one in the community who is food insecure goes hungry. This partnership and vision for a more equitable Queens are truly inspiring.

By providing this significant financial support, Council Member Nantasha Williams is not only helping local food pantries but also contributing to the health, stability, and dignity of the entire community. Her efforts are making a real difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.