In the heat of summer—carrying empty shopping bags and hopeful anticipation—community members waited patiently for food.
These New Rochelle residents of Parkside Place were gathered outside their homes, anxiously awaiting the arrival of a new mobile pantry.
For this neighborhood, the pantry is more than convenient—it’s life-changing. The nearest grocery store is over a mile away, and many residents don’t have access to a car.
Even though they were hot, tired, and hungry, neighbors stood in line—driven by a clear need and the hope of meeting it.
One look at their faces reveals what we know to be true: hunger doesn’t discriminate. It affects people of all ages, situations, and professions.
You might even see individuals in scrubs, returning home from a long shift just in time to grab a bit of food—despite having spent their day caring for others.
As the line inches forward, children peek over the tables, while parents plan out meals in their heads—doing their best to fill little bellies for the week ahead.
Their innocence and curiosity are magnetic—especially when a volunteer offers a small package of chocolate, gladly accepted with wide smiles and joyful giggles.
With heartfelt compassion, dedicated volunteers welcome every neighbor with warmth and kindness—including a familiar face: New Rochelle’s own Councilwoman Kaye.
When asked about the pantry’s impact, Councilwoman Kaye didn’t hesitate: “It’s such a lifesaver!”
She went on to explain, “The Parkside Place buildings are geographically cut off from a lot of our city services, and a lot of times our residents feel like they’re forgotten.”
That’s where Feeding Westchester steps in.
Councilwoman Kaye emphasized the importance of partnerships like this: “The fact that Feeding Westchester is here today, and that they came right to the community and met the need, is really so important.”
Mobile food pantries—like the one now serving Parkside Place—are essential in bridging the gap, ensuring neighbors receive the nourishment they need.
It’s clear: the most urgent wish of these neighbors is simply to have enough food.
And Feeding Westchester’s mission is to do whatever it takes to make that wish come true.
