During the COVID-19 pandemic, our Executive Director Yoshiaki and Director of Community Engagement Deja Alvarez, now our Deputy Director, remained steadfast, working six days a week in the office while enabling the rest of our staff to work remotely. During this time, they uncovered a pressing issue affecting many of our clients—undocumented immigrants who, despite their contributions through work and taxes, did not qualify for unemployment or pandemic relief. These individuals faced job loss, illness among family members, and imminent food scarcity. 

In a moment of serendipity, Deja received a box of groceries from her close friend, Pennsylvania State Representative Brian Sims. This gesture ignited her determination to provide sustenance to our most vulnerable clients. 

Deja initiated a call to action on social media, appealing for donations. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our community, we commenced distributing grocery store gift cards to those in need. With the invaluable assistance of Lisa Pozzi, who then served on our board of directors and now holds the role of Executive Director, we assembled food packages and personally delivered them to doorsteps. 

As news of our initiative spread, numerous individuals stepped forward, offering their time and resources to support our cause. Through partnerships with political allies such as Councilperson Bobby Henon, Senator Shariff Street, Micah Mojubian, Senator Street’s Chief of Staff, and Mayor Jim Kenny, alongside countless others, we forged connections with Share Food Program, expanding our reach to over 1,000 families weekly. 

Your unwavering dedication, whether through volunteering, donations, or resource mobilization, has transformed lives across Philadelphia. We extend our deepest gratitude for your inspiring commitment, which propels us to continue our vital work.