WMBCTV: Bronx Community Comes Together to Fight Hunger and Celebrate Culture

From stacks of canned goods to rice and beans lined up - a school in the Soundview section of the Bronx  was home to a large food distribution. More than 20,000 pounds of food was handed out to over 2,000 families in an effort to honor Puerto Rican Heritage Week and help families in need. 

“Food insecurity has always been a problem, not only in the Bronx but in the whole country,” said Rafael Toro, National Director of Public Relation, Goya Foods. “We can’t think of a better way to celebrate this week of the Puerto Rican Day Parade than to give food to people in need.”

Students and school staff from District 12 joined forces with members of the NYPD Hispanic Society to get the food out the door - an effort that they say is meant to provide relief to those in need while bringing community members together.

“It’s not just about walking the beat, it’s about walking beside each other, it’s a reminder that the police are here to help,” said Joseph Ayala, President, NYPD Hispanic Society. “It’s just our way of giving back and a form of bridging the gap with the community.”

The donation was organized by Goya Foods through its ongoing community outreach program. While the company has long taken part in parade week, organizers say this event is focused on filling kitchen shelves, not just celebrating in the streets.

“This is probably one of the most important events we’ve ever had in our district. We know that a lot of our community suffers from food insecurity,” said Dr. Jacqueline Rosado, Superintendent, District 12. “It consists of members of our community including our senior centers, places where we know that seniors and people with insecurity need it the most.”

For many involved, they say the event was as much about cultural pride as it was about connection - highlighting how community, education and service can come together to make a tangible difference. 

“It gives me energy because I’m doing something very kind for the people and it gives me some kindness in my heart to keep helping others when they need it,” said Wankely Baez, Student.

“You really enjoy it because then you feel like you’re positive because you’re giving food to the people that really need it,” said Salomon Castillo, Student.

With the Puerto Rican Day Parade set for this weekend, organizers say this food drive marked a different kind of tribute - one that brings the spirit of the island directly to Bronx families who need a little extra support.

“We are so proud that Goya is here,” said Carmen Rivera, Resident. “It’s the brand name of the island and of New York right.”