We have so much to be thankful for this month! As you read this, we are all captivated by the Summer Olympics. Despite its controversies, the Olympics symbolize the spirit of putting aside our differences to compete at the highest levels, represent our countries, test our endurance, and reach for the gold. The Olympics remind us that there is something greater than ourselves.
Secondly, we celebrate the invaluable gift of the Sisters of Charity of Halifax in our lives. Teilhard de Chardin said, “Joy is the most infallible sign of the presence of God,” and I wholeheartedly agree. This summer marks the 175th anniversary of the founding of the Sisters of Charity of Halifax—the very sisters who have woven themselves into the fabric of the lives of so many who come through our doors. Their longstanding and joyful commitment to serving at Bread and Life is truly a blessing to us all. In the following article, Sr. Marie Sorenson, our Associate Executive Director, shares the story of how the sisters became involved with Bread and Life and their enduring dedication. We are deeply grateful for their joyful presence among us!
Finally, I am thrilled to announce that Bread and Life has been awarded a 4-star Platinum rating by Charity Navigator for the fourth consecutive year, recognizing us as a top non-profit. What an achievement! We received a 100% score for Leadership, Adaptability, Impact, Measurement, Accountability, and Finance, and a 97% score in Culture and Community. This recognition is the culmination of the hard work and dedication of our staff, volunteers, and board. To each of them, I say THANK YOU for making Bread and Life one of the premier emergency food and social service providers in NYC.
“The more you practice the art of thankfulness, the more you have to be thankful for.” N.V. Peale
With a joyful heart and deepest gratitude,
Sr. Caroline Tweedy, RSM
Executive Director
Click here to view our FY23 Impact Report, which covers July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. It provides an overview of our accomplishments, emphasizes our commitment to financial transparency, and highlights the impact you have helped us make in the lives of those who seek our services. We hope this report gives you a deeper understanding of the significant role you play in our success.
Your generosity and belief in our work have been instrumental in driving positive change and empowering and supporting our guests in their journey towards self-sufficiency and independence. Through your contributions in fiscal year 2023, we served 4.5 million meals and distributed 5 million pounds of food to those in need, especially to the most vulnerable populations in Brooklyn and Queens.
If you have any questions, suggestions, or would like to get more involved, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We value your input and would love to hear from you.
Sr. Caroline Tweedy invites you to join us for an inspiring evening as we celebrate Nancy Lara and Kenny Peng, leaders in the commercial real estate industry, whose extraordinary personal and professional contributions have touched countless lives. This inaugural ‘Mixer For Meals’ event promises to be a evening filled with compelling stories, industry networking, and a shared celebration of St John’s Bread & Life’s tremendous impact on the lives of countless New Yorkers.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:
We are thrilled to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the Sisters of Charity of Halifax, a remarkable milestone for a religious order that has dedicated itself to compassion and service for nearly two centuries. At St. John’s Bread & Life, we are profoundly grateful for the unwavering support and partnership of the Sisters of Charity of Halifax. Their steadfast commitment to our mission has been instrumental in helping us provide vital services and support to those in need. Join us in honoring their incredible legacy and the positive impact they continue to have on our community.
In honor of this milestone anniversary, the Sisters of Charity of Halifax has published “175 Sister Profiles.” Our very own Sr. Marie Sorenson, Associate Executive Director of Bread & Life, wrote the a profile that spotlights Bread & Life.
At BMS SUMMERFESTCOMMUNITY BLOCK HEALTH FAIR in Brooklyn, your health is priority. This vibrant event offers the opportunity to engage with healthcare professionals and participate in educational workshops on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and preventive care. More than just an event, Summerfest is a celebration of our community’s resilience, diversity, and unity. It’s a time for us to come together, build connections, and celebrate what makes us unique yet united.
This year, Bread & Life made a significant impact at the July 20th, 2024 BMS SUMMERFEST. Case manager Carmen Hernandez, accompanied by her daughter, dedicated their day to raising awareness about our services. They engaged with numerous attendees, sharing vital information about food assistance programs and other resources including healthcare available through Bread & Life. Carmen’s expertise and her daughter’s enthusiasm created an inviting atmosphere, encouraging community members to learn more about how we can support their needs. Their combined efforts ensured that many left the event more informed and empowered to seek help when needed.
St. John’s Bread & Life case worker, Carmen Hernandez and Howard from Fidelis, proudly participated as a vendor at this year’s Unity Brooklyn event.
Unity is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the strength and resilience of our communities, offering a unique opportunity to learn, engage, and have fun while prioritizing health and wellness. Whether attendees were looking to get active, access valuable health resources, or simply enjoy a day out with their families, Unity had something for everyone.
St. John’s Bread & Life played a vital role in this vibrant gathering, ensuring that essential support and information were readily available to all.
