As the pandemic raged throughout Queens, many residents who lost jobs and income struggled to provide enough food for their families. Sunnyside Community Services (SCS), a local community organization based in Sunnyside, began weekly food distribution to help meet the need. From April 2020 to September 1, 2021, Sunnyside Community Services distributed a combined total of close to 20,000 packages of food in two locations: their main location in Sunnyside, Queens and at Woodside Houses in Woodside, Queens.
“The strain of this pandemic on the communities we serve cannot be overstated,” said Judy Zangwill, Executive Director of SCS. “People lost their jobs and income, and some also lost friends and loved ones. I’m proud that Sunnyside Community Services was able to help by providing food to so many.”
The temporary food pantry provided by SCS distributed approximately 20,000 packages of groceries or prepared meals, with approximately 12,000 packages of food distributed in Sunnyside, and 7,200 packages of food in Woodside, from April 2020 through September 1, 2021.
The food distribution was supported by a number of organizations, including Butter Beans, Campaign Against Hunger, Citibank, CityMeals on Wheels, Jean and Louis Dreyfus Foundation, Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP), Food Bank for New York City, Foodcellar Market, Fresh Direct, FWPA, GetFoodNYC Emergency Home Food Delivery, Growing Soul / USDA Food Program, Immigrant Services, LIC Relief, Mosaic Community Center, New Immigrant Community Empowerment (NICE), New York Community Trust, New York Immigration Coalition, Operation Food USA, PepsiCo, Queens Borough President’s Office, Queens Together, Robin Hood Foundation, Stop and Shop, Sunnyside Chamber of Commerce, Sunnyside Shines, Sunnyside Woodside Mutual Aid, Sunshine Foundation, United Neighborhood Houses, and World Central Kitchen.
In addition, hundreds of individuals throughout the United States contributed to the food pantry with monetary donations, purchases through the organization’s Amazon Wish List, or by dropping off food items in person at the food pantry.
“One of the few bright spots throughout this pandemic has been the generosity of New Yorkers,” said Zangwill. “Businesses, organizations, government agencies, and individuals throughout the City pulled together to help the community. The kindness of our wonderful supporters helped thousands of families through some very hard times. We are grateful to each and every donor who contributed.”
The weekly food distribution offered by SCS continued through September 8. Starting in October, food will be distributed monthly through December for those who register. For more information, email info@scsny.org.