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Dear Friends,
As June draws to a close and we mark the end of another year at Bread and Life, I find myself filled with deep gratitude. Gratitude for the mission that calls us, for the people we serve, and for each of you who make this work possible.
This past year has brought its share of uncertainty, hardship, and instability. Yet even in the face of diminished government support and a world that often feels heavy with crisis, we have continued to show up—together. Each day, we welcomed those seeking food, clothing, a warm meal, or simply someone to help navigate the complexities of life. And we did so with compassion, with courage, and with care.
I am proud to share that, for the four consecutive year, Bread and Life received a 4-star rating and a 100% score from Charity Navigator—affirming the excellence, transparency, and deep dedication at the heart of our work. But more than any rating, what speaks to our success is the hope and dignity we can offer—thanks to YOU!
As we celebrated Pentecost this year, I found myself reflecting on the gifts of the Holy Spirit—wisdom, understanding, courage, and reverence. These are not just words; they live in the hearts and hands of our staff, our volunteers, our partners, and especially our guests. Every day, we witness their perseverance, quiet strength, and grace under pressure. Their dignity, even in the face of adversity, is humbling.
Today, in a time marked by social division and increasing need, we are being called to stand together, to lift up those whose voices are not always heard, our children, our elders and those battling mental health challenges and to offer not only resources, but hope, humanity, and solidarity.
For more than 40 years, Bread and Life has stood on the front lines of service, and we remain committed to walking alongside those in need well into the future.
As we look ahead, we remain hopeful that our government and our city and state leaders will restore—and strengthen—critical funding for programs like Nourish NY and CFC. These resources are not optional; they are essential lifelines. We ask you to stand with us in prayer so that those who depend on us are not left behind.
In 2025, Bread and Life saw more than 400,000 visits to our emergency food and social service programs. Each visit represents a person. Each number, a life, a story, a neighbor, a guest who places their trust in us. And we will continue to honor that trust with dignity and love.
Rooted in the spirit of St. Vincent de Paul, our doors, and our hearts remain open. We move forward in the true Vincentian tradition, guided by faith, driven by compassion, and sustained by community.
As St. Paul reminds us: “Let us not grow weary in doing good.” Thank you for walking this journey with us.
With Gratitude,
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