By: TJVNews.com

COJO (Council of Jewish Organizations of Staten Island) successfully hosted its highly anticipated Fall Food Distribution, a powerful display of community solidarity and kindness. The event, held at the Aur Torah Sephardic Minyan, embodied a spirit of hope, love, joy, and optimism for all, thanks to the collaborative efforts of numerous partners and dedicated volunteers.

A cornerstone of this success was Making a Change with Kindness (MACK). Its CEO and Founder, Annesa Ali, who also serves as COJO’s Chief of Staff, galvanized community youth through the Kids Give Back program. Integrating the service of young people was a major factor in spreading the message and practice of kindness throughout the event.

Annesa Ali spoke passionately about the youth involvement:

“Our mission is to teach kindness through action, and the Kids Give Back program truly shined at this distribution. Seeing our youth enthusiastically packing bags and assisting families demonstrates that compassion is an active choice. They are learning that by serving our neighbors, they are actively Making a Change with Kindness and building a stronger, more empathetic Staten Island.”

Voices of Leadership and Gratitude

Mendy Mirocznik, COJO’s President, expressed deep gratitude for the collective effort:

“This event is a testament to the power of unity and service. I want to thank every volunteer, partner, and law enforcement officer who made this possible. The NYPD Community Affairs and the NYS MTA Police were not just supporters; they were a key, crucial partner, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and tremendous success of this distribution. It truly takes an entire community to deliver hope, and everyone stepped up.”

Captain Ryan Russel, Commanding Officer of the NYS MTA Police, District 9, highlighted the importance of their partnership:

“Our participation goes beyond traffic control; it’s about bridging community relations with law enforcement. Working alongside COJO, we are not only building a great relationship with their organization but actively demonstrating our commitment to serving and protecting the residents of Staten Island. We are proud to be a part of this vital effort.”

Assemblyman Michael Reilly commended the partnership:  “I am incredibly impressed with the essential work being done by COJO and MACK to support our neighbors in need. I particularly value the important integration of police and community working together in this effort, which is key to building a better Staten Island community. I will continue to advocate for and support this important community project, the COJO food pantry.”

A Partnership in Kindness

The food distribution was made possible by the unwavering support of key community partners and dedicated volunteers:

Joe Rayski, a great philanthropist from Amazon.

Gary Tai and Carina Vizhnay from Anthem.

Jenny Palaguachi from the Health Education Project.

COJO’s newest community partner, Carlos Londono from VNS Health, who not only supported the program but volunteered a helping hand to ensure a smooth distribution.

Hosting Partner: Aur Torah Sephardic Minyan

Rabbi Aharon Zeev of Aur Torah Sephardic Minyan expressed his pride in hosting the event:

“We are immensely proud to open our Synagogue’s doors and embrace the COJO food pantry, making this essential distribution a reality. Seeing members of our congregation, alongside the wider community, lending a helping hand to neighbors in need is truly inspiring. It is the highest expression of our values.”

The backbone of the on-site operation was the incredible Iva Reuven, COJO Food Pantry and Social Services, and her team of great community volunteers.

Iva Reuven praised the volunteer spirit: “The success of the food pantry hinges on the spirit of our volunteers. Watching the youth from the Kids Give Back program work alongside seasoned volunteers, the police, and community leaders was heartwarming. Their dedication ensures that thousands of families receive the support they need with dignity and kindness.”

Law enforcement played an instrumental role in the seamless execution of the event, demonstrating a strong commitment to community service. Officers from the NYPD Community Affairs – Brian Postiglione, Beshouy Rizkalla, John Sibal, Sean Mondello, and Scott Gusenfitter – along with Chaplain Imam Tahir Kukai and Captain Russel, made a significant difference.

The Fall Food Distribution successfully delivered essential provisions and a powerful message: the spirit of kindness and community service is strong and enduring.