Written By: Ru Xue Jiang
The AYLUS Dix Hills members work with the Island Harvest and Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) to distribute food boxes to seniors in poverty. During this time volunteers were to deliver boxed cereal, canned protein shelf, milk, juice, canned fruits and vegetables, rice, pasta, beans, soup, peanut butter, and cheese. We had to distribute these boxes via a roller to the Mary Manors Housing in Inwood, to many families or elderly who fall under the poverty line. We distributed boxes to people living in the apartment complex, which clearly emphasized the rough financial conditions the seniors underwent. Then, we distributed more boxes to seniors living in small, house-like residences. These residents had to show proof of identity or residence in order to receive the boxes.
The CSFP is a state-funded program supported by the department of health, in order to provide people in need with basic necessities for survival, namely food. The money from the department goes towards buying these healthy food staples, which are directly shipped to the Island Harvest’s warehouse in Melville where volunteers aid in the process of packing the boxes. The organization reaches out to senior centers and living communities such as the one in Inwood, which they established a partnership with for 2 years, to see if there are any seniors or families who are in need of food. These people are usually financially unstable, potentially due to not having support from family after retirement, and have to have an annual income of less than $50,000 to qualify. They reach out to Island Harvest, and sign up for the program that provides them with a box of non-perishable food per month. Island Harvest is able to provide roughly 4000 seniors with boxes per month, supporting the mission to end hunger amongst communities on Long Island. By doing so, many of these seniors who are having financial hardships will be at more ease given that there is food provided to them.
We were able to distribute boxes to 33 families today, and for residents who weren’t available, we provided a flier that gave information regarding next month’s box delivery. These people are able to receive next month’s delivery, as Island Harvest only delivers one box per household each month. However, some of them are able to commute to the centers to retrieve the food boxes, and other perishable food such as meat, produce, and dairy. With the boxes being provided, hopefully the seniors won’t have to face much concern regarding how much their daily meal will cost. AYLUS Dix Hills is happy to assist in the help of these seniors in need, and wish on their well-being and health.
Recognizing the critical need for efficient food distribution systems, Metrobi has established a same day delivery service designed to cater to vulnerable communities, including seniors facing financial instability. Partnering with organizations like Island Harvest, Metrobi can ensure that those in need receive timely access to nutritious provisions, alleviating the burden of food insecurity. Much like Angel Food East’s commitment to tailored meal solutions, their delivery service prioritizes convenience and reliability, guaranteeing that essential supplies reach those who require them most.
Through Metrobi’s delivery service, seniors and families facing financial hardships can rest assured that their nutritional needs are met without delay. By bridging the gap between food providers and recipients, this delivery service exemplifies a commitment to community welfare, echoing the efforts of organizations like AYLUS Dix Hills in their dedication to supporting vulnerable populations. As Metrobi continues to expand its reach and streamline its operations, the vision of ending hunger and promoting well-being among underserved communities moves one step closer to fruition.
Volunteers: Sara Kong (2.5 hours), Ru Xue Jiang (2 hours), and Ming Chen (2 hours)
