Office announces $2.87 million to build new community center next to pantry

An agency official announced $2,870,000 onstage to help build and open a new community center next to a local food pantry, and residents at the event described how the pantry and related services have helped them keep food on the table and pursue job training.

At the event an agency official said, “Today, it is a great honor to announce $2,870,000 from my office in Correia with whom.” A nonprofit director called the moment “transformational,” saying, “This is our 35th year, and this moment with the borough president is really transformational. It allows us to create a community center where we create workforce programs, our educations, programs can expand, our scholarship program.”

Two residents offered personal testimony about the programs tied to the pantry. One said, “This program has helped me beyond more and much of what it normally is. I'm now a proud respiratory therapist, also a guru on the community.” Another said the pantry’s groceries had helped the family and daily life: “The variety of grocery and essential we receive has helped my family in many ways. ... I have a peace of mind knowing that I'm gonna go to the pantry empty and come back with bags I cannot even carry.”

Organizers described the new center’s intended uses as workforce development, expanded education programs and scholarships. The transcript records the funding amount and program aims but does not specify which borough president or precise office title the speakers referenced, nor does it provide a construction timetable or formal approvals required to begin work.

There was no formal vote or motion recorded in the transcript; speakers framed the announcement as funding and program expansion rather than a final contractual or legislative action. Organizers said the center will expand workforce, education and scholarship programs but did not specify an opening date or next procedural steps.