Queens, NY – Assemblyman David I. Weprin (D-Richmond Hill) held an annual food drive drop-off event today at the River Fund New York’s main location in Richmond Hill, Queens. The food drive, which began in late November of 2014, was arranged in collaboration with the River Fund New York to benefit hundreds of homeless individuals and families, the elderly, homebound, and people with disabilities. By late-December, with an incredible show of support and compassion from several community organizations, churches, and residents all throughout Queens, Assembly Member Weprin’s district offices received more than 350 pounds worth of canned foods, fruits and vegetables, as well as nonperishable items such as dry past, cereals, and oatmeal from residents all throughout Queens.

“The city, overall, has been doing well, but there is still a large number of people living in poverty and are hungry,” said Assembly Member Weprin. “The River Fund really does an extraordinary job year after year in making sure that the people and children with needs are well served especially during the holiday season. I sincerely thank the hardworking staff members and volunteers of the River Fund for their selfless dedication, as well as everyone who donated the proceeds.”

“Our largest populations served are children, their families, and the seniors who are struggling the most within our city,” said Swami Durga Das, CEO & Executive Director of the River Fund New York. “We are thankful for Assembly Member Weprin for being here with us today, and for the support he and his office have shown through these wonderful donations.”

“We are a Client Choice Food Pantry with multiple offsite locations operating throughout the city in addition to our main location here on Lefferts Boulevard,” said Shirley Rice, Chief Operation Officer at the River Fund. “We are thankful for today’s donations, which will come in handy to our seniors that are disabled and homebound. We are also thankful for the community for their support for the River Fund.”

About the River Fund New York:

The River Fund New York is a food pantry services organization with multiple mobile locations throughout New York City, whose mission is to feed and empower those they serve to move beyond the line of poverty. The River Fund served more than 81,000 people in 2009 and based on current trends for food insufficiency, over 100,000 people in 2010 and increasing numbers every year after.