Distributing nearly 5,000 meals to seniors in need

Over the past week, the Joan and Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island has distributed nearly 5,000 meals to seniors in need across Staten Island.
 
Following the closure of JCC facilities to the public, staff members have been distributing frozen and shelf-stable kosher meals at the Bernikow Building as well as delivering meals to home-bound seniors. Meals were also distributed to the residents of Seaview Senior Housing, where the JCC operates the Social Services Office.
 
Staff members have also reached out to 300 seniors a day by phone, including those who attend the JCC’s three senior centers and individuals enrolled in the JCC’s Family Solutions to Memory Loss Programs. In addition to food, staff are providing resources and supplies to seniors isolated in their homes.
 
“Over the past 90 years, the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC has occupied various buildings and spaces throughout our community. No matter where we were located, our mission has never changed—to provide services to those in need across Staten Island,” said JCC CEO David Sorkin. “Now, we see a clear need, and we are ready to transform the way we offer services to help those in crisis. Even with our buildings closed to the public, the JCC has stepped up to do everything we can to help the community during this time.”
 
In addition to providing meals, the JCC continues to provide social services to those in need during this crisis. JCC social services have gone completely virtual, with staff members providing health insurance navigation, mental health services, legal support resources, and other COVID-19 resources over the phone and email.
 
“With each and every passing day, we will continue to listen, adapt, and deliver to those hit hardest by this crisis. Please know that if you have a need, we are here for you,” noted Sorkin.
 
The meal program for seniors is funded by the NYC Department for the Aging.

​For more information on our social service programs, click here.

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