In light of the ongoing federal government shutdown and expiration of SNAP emergency benefits, Sid Jacobson JCC is urging the community to take action against the growing food insecurity crisis.
Through its Nikki Schwartz Memorial Community Needs Bank, Sid Jacobson JCC serves as both a collection site and redistribution center, ensuring that essential items reach families in need across Long Island and Queens.
Each week, the Bank provides food, household, and personal care products to more than 100 households facing food insecurity, while also supporting nearly 20 local pantries as a redistribution hub for Island Harvest Food Bank and Met Council.
“Every time our community answers the call to stock our shelves, we’re able to serve more individuals and strengthen support for our partner agencies,” Susan Berman, Associate Executive Director, Community Engagement, said. “When you give to our Community Needs Bank, you’re not just helping one family—you’re helping us lift up the entire community.”
As food costs continue to rise and federal aid recedes, Sid Jacobson JCC’s Nikki Schwartz Memorial Community Needs Bank remains steadfast in its mission to help households and partner pantries meet basic needs and ease financial burdens.
“We need to spread the word that our Community Needs Bank is both a collection site and distribution center,” Berman added. “Our mission is to fight food insecurity by ensuring that everyone has a place to turn. The goal is to be the most consistently stocked distribution center—24/7, 365 days a year—so no one ever goes without the essentials."
Sid Jacobson JCC is currently seeking shelf-stable, non-perishable food items, as well as household and personal care products, to meet increasing demand. Community members can contribute in one of four ways:
- In-person drop-off at SJJCC’s Annex, 200 Forest Drive, East Hills, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.
- Participate in our upcoming Curb Your Mitzvah Food + Coat Drive on Sunday, November 9, 10am-12pm.
- Shop from our Amazon Wish List at the following link.
- Make a financial donation or contribute gift cards in lieu of monetary gifts here.
For more information on our Nikki Schwartz Memorial Community Needs Bank, please visit SJJCC.org/CNB.
About Sid Jacobson JCC
Sid Jacobson JCC (sjjcc.org) in East Hills provides a full range of cutting-edge recreational, health, fitness, educational, cultural arts, and social service programs. SJJCC promotes Jewish identity and provides a comprehensive program based on Jewish values, traditions, heritage, and culture, and is committed to enriching the lives of all individuals and families in its community. Where life flourishes.
“Like” the JCC on Facebook (facebook.com/sidjacobsonjcc) and “Follow Us” on Instagram (instagram.com/sidjacobsonjcc).
Sid Jacobson JCC is a beneficiary agency of the UJA Federation of New York.