COJO Unveils Winter Pantry Program to Foster Community Unity

COJO Unveils Winter Pantry Program to Foster Community Unity

Edited by: TJVNews.com

In a powerful demonstration of community solidarity, the Staten Island Council of Jewish Organizations (COJO) proudly inaugurated its Winter Pantry Program on January 2, 2024, at the Aur Torah Sephardic Minyan of Staten Island in New Springville. Under the guidance of the esteemed Iva Reuven, COJO’s Food Pantry and Social Services Director, the program aims to provide essential support to those in need during the winter season.

Expressing gratitude to Rabbi Aharon Zeev, President Reuven Oshri, and the entire Aur Torah Synagogue family, COJO President Mendy Mirocznik acknowledged their generosity in adopting the Food Pantry, enabling COJO to serve the community effectively. Mirocznik emphasized the importance of teamwork and community support, highlighting COJO’s role as the “people’s pantry” dedicated to the community’s well-being.

Rabbi Zeev, reflecting on the challenging global events of recent years, stressed the need for acts of loving kindness, or Chesed, to uplift society. He commended COJO for spearheading the Food Pantry Project and expressed hope that the initiative would contribute a merit to restoring peace and serenity to the world.

Iva Reuven, the driving force behind the pantry, shared her journey from an emergency COVID Response Team to a close-knit community of activists. She underscored the pantry’s role as more than just a food distribution center, describing it as a family that goes beyond providing nourishment, offering support, and connecting individuals with additional services.

Mirocznik extended his appreciation to the NYPD, acknowledging Chief Joseph Gulotta, Staten Island Borough Commander; Lt. Rafet Awad, commanding officer, Community Affairs, Patrol Borough Staten Island; Inspector Eric Waldhelm, commanding officer, Pct. 121; Sgt. Charles Kosa, Pct. 121; Officer Scott Gusenfitter, Community Affairs, Pct. 121; and Officer Sean Mondello, Community Affairs, Pct. 121 for their integral role in launching the COJO Winter Pantry 2024. He lauded the NYPD’s enthusiasm and commitment, from packing and distributing food packages to engaging with the community, contributing to a safer Staten Island.

Chief Gulotta reciprocated the appreciation, recognizing COJO as a leader in fostering police-community collaboration. He commended COJO’s positive impact on community trust and expressed gratitude for the shared commitment to public safety.

Mirocznik concluded optimistically, stating, “Thank you, NYPD, for being with us at our Winter 2024 Pantry Launch. I know that the best is yet to come.”