On Tuesday, June 10th, from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M., members of the AYLUS Roslyn Branch (Remon Cao and Yinshuo Gao) volunteered with NOSH Delivers, a nonprofit food relief organization based in Port Washington. NOSH Delivers provides groceries to individuals and families in need throughout Nassau County. Their mission is to combat food insecurity by distributing fresh produce, frozen meats, and other essentials to underserved communities, soup kitchens, and shelters.
During our time there, we were assigned to two different tasks. One of us worked at the frozen meat distribution station, where the responsibility was to prepare boxes filled with frozen fish (pollock), ground beef, and either turkey or bacon. The quantity packed depended on how much each delivery required. For example, if a delivery called for 8 servings, the box would be packed with 8 pollocks, 8 packets of ground beef, and 8 packets of either turkey or bacon. These boxes were then picked up by drivers who delivered them to homeless shelters or soup kitchens, where they would be used to prepare meals for people in need. There were approximately 10–12 pickups during our shift, and every driver expressed genuine gratitude for the work we were doing.
The second task was assisting with NOSH’s “farmer’s market” station, where fresh produce and other perishable goods were distributed directly to community members. Each person was allowed a selection of items, including two loaves of bread, 3–4 potatoes, one carrot, 3–4 red or white onions, one avocado, one bag of baby tomatoes, four clementines, two apples, and two mangoes. In addition to handing out groceries, we ensured that the produce boxes remained full and neatly arranged to maintain a presentable and welcoming display.
After the delivery pickups were completed, both volunteers worked together at the farmer’s market table. Throughout the day, community members were kind and thankful, and it was rewarding to see how our actions directly helped those in need. From ensuring meal deliveries to sharing fresh produce, we saw firsthand the value of working as a team to support the local community.
This volunteer experience taught us the importance of organization, teamwork, and communication in a food distribution setting. We also learned how much of a difference small acts of service can make. Seeing the appreciation from both delivery drivers and market visitors reminded us how meaningful it is to give back. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve with NOSH and would be happy to return in the future.
Members who participated include:
Remon Cao (4 hours), Yinshuo Gao (4 hours)
Reporter: Remon Cao
