Volunteers of the non-profit Calvary’s Mission Food Pantry, founded by humanitarian Guyanese American Tony Singh, on May 19, took a break from their weekly Saturday charitable duties to socialize, and be served dinner at the group’s 2nd Annual Fundraising Gala at Terrace on the Park banquet hall queens, while raising funds to combat food insecurity.
With the recent influx of migrants crowding the 22-year-old pantry at its 102-16 89th Avenue, Richmond Hill location, and the rising cost of nutritious foodstuff, the organization is overwhelmed when it comes to feeding the needy. A larger building is also needed to accommodate the 1200 plus residents who join a Saturday weekly distribution.
As such, the grand event raffled off scores of donated designer outfits, household items, body enhancing gift baskets among many other contributions, that brought in the much-needed endowment, to help the pantry meet its humanitarian goals.
Guyana-born Singh, owner Four Seasons Fashion MFG Inc. with wife, Sherell, and daughter Asha by his side, thanked the gathering for supporting the efforts of the pantry, noting that food insecurity in New York City is at historic heights.
Singh who delivered a heartfelt prayer before opening the gala, noted that, “One in four children suffers from food insecurity with many going to bed hungry not knowing where their next meal is coming from. Sadly, the number of clients served by food pantries in NYC has almost doubled in the last two years.”
Managing Director Kevin Sookdeo, spoke of his father coming to America from Trinidad & Tobago, and working to make a life for his family, and the charitable way they made a way for others, and highlighted their fight against food insecurity, hunger, and poverty.
Along with wife, Nadia the couple who served as emcees, helped the non-profit to raise funds for the success of the food pantry.
Jonathan Locke, proprietor of the Bronx, Timehri Studios, a longtime volunteer said, “Brenda and I were privileged to be at the fundraiser. I can’t say enough about what Tony and his entire team do for the community. When you see almost 2000 people lined up for assistance on a Saturday morning in Queens, you will understand my statement, and they do it every week rain or shine.”
“Tony, you have my utmost respect and admiration for what you do, not to mention that your entire family support you and they’re all involved,” he said.
The award-winning fashion designer, who is a staunch volunteer and board member of Calvary’s Mission ensured winning prizes were handed out expeditiously, during the well-attended fundraiser.
Trinidad-native, Shelly said she was inspired by her sister to volunteer at the food pantry in 2011, adding that it brings her a sense of joy and fulfillment. “I don’t only share food, I also share love and kindness,” she said, and called other volunteers her extended family and everyone, God’s disciples.
“Calvary’s Mission can only achieve its goals with generous donations and support from businesses like yours. Your gift will make a huge impact towards achieving our goals. Without these donations, serving those in our communities would not be possible,” said Singh.
To learn more, or donate, visit – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064478628435 .
