Our volunteers mean the world to us! We've had an exhilarating start to the year, and there are plenty of exciting events lined up for this spring. We're grateful to have you as part of WestCOP. This month, we're shining a spotlight on our incredible volunteers. Their unwavering support and dedication are the backbone of WestCOP, and we couldn't do it without them.
Volunteers at our soup kitchens, food banks, and community action sites are the heart and soul of WestCOP. Their selfless dedication and tireless efforts ensure that those in need receive nourishment, support, and care. They not only provide meals but also offer comfort and a sense of belonging to individuals facing difficult times. Their contributions not only fill empty stomachs but also warm hearts and inspire hope.
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HIGHLIGHTS
PHIL MENNA: A Beacon of Hope and Service in the heart of Rockland County, Phil Menna stands as a pillar of selflessness and dedication. Phil volunteers at WestCOP Rockland CAP's food pantry service every Thursday, assisting with unloading vans and preparing grocery bags for those in need. His commitment extends beyond the pantry; Phil lends his expertise as a handyman to repair and maintain vital community spaces. What sets Phil apart is not just his actions but the spirit with which he serves. He embodies the essence of volunteerism with humility and determination, making a profound impact on his community.
WestCOP Rockland Case Manager, Fredly Dubuisson
"Mr. Marcelino is an unstoppable, determined, respectful, kind hard worker, and excellent human being. He loves to help the community, he truly does it sincerely, and that makes the difference. Mr. Marcelino is a testimony of elderly person that do not give up. Mr. Marcelino always gives us good advice and transfers the good energy and joy that he carries. He is always ready to help, full of energy and kindness. He is an excellent worker."
Ada Vargas - Receptionist Haverstraw CAP Site"Marcelino, he has been volunteering with WestCOP in Haverstraw for a few years now. He is always here and ready to work with whatever comes our way. He is here every Monday to help with the fruits and vegetables that we receive. He unloads the truck, goes through all the items and then packs up the bags. Whenever we get a food pickup, he helps unload the truck and then helps put all items away in the food pantry. BTW, did I mention he takes a bus to get to our office. He does all this with a smile on his face at all times. Finally yet importantly, Marcelino has on a few occasions bought us pizza for lunch, the reason...because he wanted to. As he leaves he says: call me if you need anything, I will be here to help."
Heidi Aybar, Case Manager Haverstraw CAP SIteFrancisco, he is also always here at the ready. Unloading, sorting and packing up bags for the clients. There have been times when he even helps to hand out the food bags. He was here for Thanksgiving as well helping to give out the turkeys. He helps with anything we ask, he is very appreciative of us keeping him busy while he looks for full time work. He currently works part time. He understands how much we work and that is also one of the reasons he helps. He is thoughtful, bringing each of us flowers for Valentines Day. That is just part of his character. CAP Site Director
Welcome back, Pastor Pasquale Falco, to the Greenburgh Community Action Site! A beacon of generosity and unity, he has returned to ensure that no one in Greenburgh goes hungry during these challenging times. For over eight years, Pastor Falco has been delivering recovered food from local supermarkets in the Rye area to the Greenburgh/Elmsford CAP weekly, a tradition only interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. But now, he's back!
The gymnasium of the Theodore D Young Community Center, typically bustling with the sounds of sports and activities, has transformed into a sanctuary of hope. Rows of tables adorned with boxes filled with fresh produce, canned goods, and essential supplies stretch across the floor, signaling a welcomed return to normalcy. The air is charged with an energy fueled by the collective effort to make a difference.
Clients eagerly select items they need, their smiles serving as a reminder that we are stronger together. Every Thursday's distribution is a testament to our community's resilience and strength. As we press forward, let us remember that together, we can overcome any obstacle and transform challenges into triumphs!
ROCKLAND CAP: Pablo, Phil, Rosie, Elsa, Eunice and Isabel Pastor Pasquale Falco
White Plains Community Action Partnership
The Mobile Food Pantry Truck Continuum Project volunteers distributed 17,592 pounds of food on the second Saturdays of December, January and February. Thank you volunteers from Delta Sigma Theta Sorority of Westchester, Bethel Church, The Life Church New York, Thomas H. Slater Community Center and WestCOP
SHELTERS OSHA WORKSHOP
On March 8, 2024, eleven program participants graduated with their OSHA 30 certificate after participating in a week’s training at Grasslands Homeless Shelter. This initiative aims to empower clients by providing them with the training and tools needed to break the cycle of homelessness and become financially independent.
