#BeKind21: GIVE Back

September 09, 2019
This story took place in United States

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#BeKind21: GIVE BackToday’s #BeKind21 message is brought to you by our partners at the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation. I grew up in Washington Heights in New York and it really shaped my view on life. It wasn’t a wealthy community by any means,...

Today’s #BeKind21 message is brought to you by our partners at the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation.

I grew up in Washington Heights in New York and it really shaped my view on life. It wasn’t a wealthy community by any means, but it was rich in values. People cared for one another and looked out for those in need. That was a lesson taught to me by my parents: respect your neighbors, treat them like family, and show everyone kindness.

That is also at the core of the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation. We seek to spread kindness—in ways both big and small—to those having major difficulties in their lives or just going through a rough time. A simple act of kindness can make a huge impact on someone.

It’s why we were so pleased when we joined City Harvest in their mission to feed hungry New Yorkers by becoming its first neighborhood sponsor for the people of Washington Heights and Inwood. With so many residents of Washington Heights and Inwood struggling to make ends meet, food is an important gift to be able to deliver to them.

Recently, I was able to go home again and reconnect with the community. We went to City Harvest’s Dyckman Mobile Market in Washington Heights and helped distribute thousands of pounds of pears, cantaloupe, watermelon, and eggplant to over 400 families—all free of charge. We also handed out our free GIVE Bags­—our way to inspire giving and paying it forward.

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Photo credit: Ben Gabbe/bengabbephotography.com

It was a wonderful day helping the community and feeling the love and warmth that I experienced growing up. It’s a feeling that everyone should be able to share with #BeKind21.

Your kindness challenge today: Learn how you can support City Harvest by visiting cityharvest.org and order a free GIVE Bag at lovethegive.com to keep the giving going!

In Kindness,

Alex Cohen
President
Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation

P.S. Invite a friend to join the challenge: bornthisway.foundation/bekind21.

(top photo credit: Celine Held/elofilms.com)

 

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