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COJO Launches Spring 2026 Food Pantry Services at Aur Torah Sephardic Minyan, Celebrating Unity and “Vitamin Love”
Edited by: TJVNews.com
The Council of Jewish Organizations (COJO) of Staten Island is proud to announce the official launch of its Spring 2026 food pantry services, hosted at Aur Torah Sephardic Minyan. This vital initiative marks a season of growth and communal support, ensuring that families across the borough have access to the resources they need with dignity and care.
Powered by Partnership
The success of this launch was made possible through the unwavering support of COJO’s premier food distribution ally, Met Council. Their leadership and logistical expertise remain the backbone of the borough’s ability to provide high-quality, nutritious resources.
Special recognition is extended to the Met Council leadership team for their continued generosity: David Greenfield (CEO), Aaron Cyperstein (Managing Director of Legal and External Affairs), Benjamin Zaintez (Agency Relations Manager), and Hannah Lupien (Managing Director of Food Programs).
Law Enforcement and Community Safety Unity
In a powerful display of civic partnership, leaders from the NYPD and MTA State Police assisted with every aspect of the day’s operations. From packing heavy crates and distributing fresh produce to managing traffic control, these officers worked side-by-side with community volunteers.
Distinguished attendees included:
Fred Kreizman, NYPD Assistant Commissioner of Community Affairs
Captain Rich Santora, Executive Officer, 121st Precinct
Captain Joseph Abdelmessih, Community Affairs Bureau
Inspector Ryan Russel, Commanding Officer, District 9, MTA State Police
Officer Sean Mondello, Community Affairs Officer, 121st Precinct
NYPD Assistant Commissioner of Community Affairs, Fred Kreizman, stated:
“Mendy Mirocznik and COJO have done an outstanding job once again. By incorporating the police as an essential partner in these community efforts, Mendy helps secure vital community confidence in the department. Seeing officers and residents working together for a common cause builds a level of trust and mutual respect that is essential for a safe and unified city.”
A Theme of Positive Transformation
Rabbi Aharon Zeev, Spiritual Leader of Aur Torah Sephardic Minyan, added:
“Transformation begins when we look at our neighbors with a full heart. As we celebrate the spirit of Lag Baomer, we are reminded that the fire of Unity and Love must be the driving force behind everything we do. My congregation is proud to adopt this project with full hearts, infusing our community with the essential ‘Vitamin Love’ that heals, strengthens, and nourishes the soul.”
Leadership Perspectives
Mendy Mirocznik, COJO President:
“Today’s launch is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together as one family. By partnering with Aur Torah, Met Council, and our brothers and sisters in blue, we aren’t just handing out grocery bags; we are building a bridge of hope. Unity is our greatest strength.”
Annesa Ali, COJO Chief of Staff and Founder/President of Making a Change with Kindness:
“At its core, this project is about making a change through kindness. I am particularly moved by the heavy involvement of our youth in today’s distribution. By engaging the next generation in service, we are teaching them that kindness is a responsibility, not an option. This hands-on experience helps mold a better society and a more empathetic community, ensuring the legacy of giving continues for years to come.”
Iva Reuven, COJO Food Pantry Director:
“My team and I are dedicated to the long haul. Our goal is singular: to bring joy and dignity to our neighbors. It is heartwarming to see our volunteers working in tandem with the Aur Torah family and law enforcement to ensure that every person who walks through these doors feels respected.”
