Rosedale pharmacist’s mask donation honors Holocaust survivor grandparents

Pharmacy owner David Altman donated 600 KN95 masks in honor of his grandparents, Elya and Ester Katz Photo courtesy of David Altman

By Rachel Vick

A Rosedale pharmacy owner has donated hundreds of KN95 masks to a local organization serving people with mental illness during the COVID-19 crisis, a gesture that he said honors his Holocaust survivor grandparents. 

Edward Altman, who owns Merrick Pharmacy on Merrick Boulevard, donated 600 masks to the Institute for Community Living in memory of his grandparents, Ester and Elya Katz

“If it was not for people taking the opportunity to help them, my family would not be here,” said Altman. “I hope everyone understands that we are all here for a purpose. This is the time to find it.”

The masks will be used by the ICL’s medical staff, community outreach teams and homeless service workers. 

ICL works with individuals and families facing challenges that range from housing insecurity to substance abuse and mental illness.