In celebration of National Volunteer Month, we're honored to spotlight Food Bank volunteers who contribute their time, talents, and resources to our mission of empowering every New Yorker to achieve food security for good.
Our first spotlight is on Debbie, who has been with us since 2019. We interviewed her about the power of volunteering and why it's so important to involve her family in the work she does with us at Food Bank. Meet them all below!
Debbie has often brought her family to our warehouse to volunteer at repacks.
Why is Food Bank’s mission important to you?
Growing up in rural Jamaica, I was witness to families facing food insecurities. From a young age, I was taught to give back to those who have limited access to food, by offering my time and sharing food with those who needed it. Food Bank offers the space and the resources for volunteers to be a part of the solution to end food insecurity in NYC. Giving back to my fellow New Yorkers in need is something my family and I look forward to doing every chance we get.
What was your most memorable moment while serving with Food Bank?
The most memorable moment while serving is seeing the expression on other volunteers' faces, (especially my children's) when the total number of families that will receive a package is announced. It's always a WOW moment knowing we were all a part of being of service to others. It always amazes me to see how much we accomplish in a short amount of time when we all work together with one goal in mind.
Debbie has been a committed volunteer since 2019.
Tell us about a meal that is special to you and your family.
Ackee and codfish with roasted breadfruit is a meal that my family enjoys. What makes this special is that it's my home country's national dish. Eating it always conjures up some fond memories of me growing up in Jamaica, sharing this meal outdoors with family and friends. I always get nostalgic when I consume this dish.
Who inspires you to serve?
My kids inspire me to serve. Allowing them to see firsthand that giving back is something everyone should aspire to do, is one of the main reasons I continue to volunteer. I want to inspire them to be agents of change and to make a difference in their community.
We are so thankful to volunteers like Debbie and her family who help power our mission every day. Click here to join us on the ground as a Food Bank volunteer!
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