By Rachel Sherrow, Chief Operating Officer
October 16, 2017
One of the highlights of the year for me is hosting Citymeals’ annual STAR Awards. This special celebration honors the dedication of the case managers, kitchen staff and deliverers who help us fulfill our mission and deliver more than 2 million meals each year. Thanks to the generous hospitality of Citymeals Board Member Dennis Riese, we were able to bring more than 300 of these extraordinary individuals together for an awards dinner that was full of inspiration. Here are just a few of the amazing honorees I had the privilege to acknowledge.
One of Citymeals’ most devoted meal deliverers, Melissa climbs stairs and rings doorbells across Manhattan’s East Side. One day last year, she knocked on a meal recipient's door to deliver lunch and heard the woman calling out for help. Melissa immediately called 911 and talked with the woman through the door – assuring her that help was on the way – until the police and paramedics arrived. Through her caring spirit, Melissa delivers meals and compassion to the most vulnerable individuals.
Nick Lettiere has been preparing meals in Staten Island since 2001 when that kitchen first opened. Arriving at work before 4:00 am, he begins cooking for 1,200 of his older neighbors. Nick’s professionalism and dedication are evident in all that he does. He can tell you which meal recipient has dietary restrictions and who is on each delivery route. Despite his own health issues, Chef Lettiere has remained devoted to caring and cooking for others.
For six years, Erin has coordinated the Friendly Visiting program in Sunnyside, Queens. She carefully matches volunteers with homebound seniors in need of companionship. In addition, she has worked diligently to support a special Citymeals aging initiative to identify the most fragile, at-risk seniors and equip them with a special device they can use to directly connect to 911 in an emergency. One of the people Erin helped is 76-year-old Lydia, who lives alone and has a history of strokes. After a recent fall, Lydia was unable to get up and had to wait more than 24 hours for assistance. After hearing this, Erin went to Lydia’s home herself, installed the device and took the time to explain to her how it works. Thanks to Erin’s patience and support, Lydia can feel safer in her home.
I salute the many other STAR awardees and runners-up this year, who lead by example – and their colleagues, who personify teamwork. Our frail aged neighbors are happier, healthier and safer thanks to their hard work and commitment.
We are able to promise that 100% of your donation will be used for the preparation and delivery of meals, thanks to our partnership with the City of New York, Citymeals board members and certain designated grants for administrative expenses.
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