Helping the day worker and his family
Feed the Newcomer began several years ago when two of our volunteers noticed a group of men who, early each morning, were waiting for work along one of Rockland's County roads.
These day laborers were there no matter what the weather was like – even on the coldest winter days. Jim and Wally responded to the need they saw and organized a group of volunteers to make and distribute sandwiches to these neighbors in need.
Each Tuesday, a group of women volunteers meet at People to People to make sandwiches and assemble bagged lunches that include two sandwiches, juice, fruit and a muffin.
Every Wednesday morning, Jim and Wally distribute the food packages to a mostly immigrant population, as they wait in hope for a day’s work. Today, Feed the Newcomer provides about 2,700 bagged meals each year.
For too many of these men, this is their only meal of the day.
The stories that these men share with our volunteers are stories of hope, of working towards the American dream…a house, a job and food to feed their families.
Not just food…
As the weather turns cold, our volunteers also distribute warm clothing to the men – many of whom spend their days laboring outdoors.
As with all of our programs, it is the thoughtful and warm-hearted interaction with our volunteers that makes such a difference in the lives of these men, through our counseling efforts and assistance with basic needs.
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