Note: A previous online and print version incorrectly said that Ingrassia is a volunteer at Hope. 

Hope Community Services’ soup kitchen—which is right next to the New Rochelle train station—is a place where people can donate food to those in need. While many people are able to comfortably waste food every day, it can be difficult for the homeless population, low income families and many others to find meals every day.

From the beginning, the organization has helped hundreds of people. It has become the largest emergency food pantry and soup kitchen in the region, according to the organization’s website. Not only does Hope Community Services provide food for the hungry, it also offers clothing, language skills, emotional support, immigration services and much more.

There are a great number of people nationwide who are not receiving the proper help and aid they need. The demand for community services has increased by 44% in the past 12 months, according to the website. The demographics are changing as well.

Hope’s mission is to assist people in getting the resources they need to survive. The organization has also helped many people become self-sufficient through work and a fixed income.

When donating goods, it is very important that the food has not been opened, nor used. The most acceptable types of food include: rice, canned tuna and other types of other non-perishable foods.

Hope Community Services also has a group of volunteers who offer donations, labor and time to those in need. Hope is full of people who are willing to lend a hand to anyone that needs a little help in their community.

Not only are the volunteers welcoming upon arrival, but the clients themselves also make up the spirit of Hope Community Services. Even just by walking around the dining area, there is an immediate sense of community and happiness. As people walk by they can witness the joy the clients spread among one another as they are all very friendly, treating one another like family.

If you’re panicking about having too much money left on your meal plan, spare a thought for the less fortunate in our community. Use some of the leftover money you have and buy some non-perishable items for donation. You could improve the lives of those who share your neighborhood here at Iona.

Check out Hope Community Services at hopecommunityservices.org or reach out to the Office of Mission and Ministry to find out how you can get involved.