Flushing community groups unite to distribute food

John Choe and other community leaders spoke outside the Bland Houses Community Center on Roosevelt avenue in Flushing, the new home of the La Jornada food pantry. Photo courtesy of the Flushing Chamber of Commerce

By Rachel Vick

Community leaders from in and around Flushing announced a joint effort Wednesday to distribute food and reach out to homebound neighbors as the city’s COVID-19 shutdown stretched into its third day.

The Flushing Interfaith Council, Greater Flushing Chamber of Commerce, Gutsier Living, Kissena Synergy, La Jornada, TransAlt Western Queens Committee and other local groups are among the groups collecting resident information and delivering food.

“After months of government inaction, New Yorkers are realizing the only people who will save us are ourselves,” said Flushing Chamber Executive Director John Choe. “That's the impetus for today's announcement: our community won't let our friends and neighbors fend for themselves.  We're here to help and together, we will survive,” 

Volunteers will collect names, address and language spoken in order to best serve neighbors in need of assistance.

The La Jornada food pantry will serve as an emergency food distribution center during the COVID-19 emergency. It is open Thursdays and Fridays from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.. 

“We're proud to serve our community at this critical moment. Our volunteers will continue providing emergency food assistance even if our City is locked down,” said La Jornada Executive Director Pedro Rodrigue. “However, in order to sustain this critical service, we need volunteers and money.  Please help us help our community.”

Advance registration is required through pedrolajornada@gmail.com or 917-880-5693.