MANHATTAN --- (
www.YORKATHLETICS.com) York College men's soccer spent time Wednesday compassionately serving those struggling with homelessness by volunteering at the New York City Relief Bus in Chelsea Park.
Founded in 1989, NYC Relief has mobilized thousands of volunteers to provide hope and resources to those struggling with homelessness leading towards life transformation. The NYC Relief Buses are mobile care centers that serve homemade soup and bread, soks, distribute hygiene kits, host life care visits, and pray for the needs of their friends on the street. The mobile outreach to the homeless consistently goes to the same seven locations across NYC and New Jersey, eight times a week.
"We are extremely thankful for this rewarding opportunity that allowed us to make a positive impact by giving back to the community," said head men's soccer coach Al Meneses.
Members of the men's soccer program started the day by assisting NYC Relief's focus of creating an intentional space that welcomes guests and invites conversation over a shared meal by setting up tents, tables and chairs on the sidewalk. York also made their presence felt in the mobile kitchen and dining areas.
"We were able to connect on a personal level with those who are served by NYC Relief by sitting down at the table for a meal and conversations," Meneses noted.
The interaction allowed for the homeless to share their life stories with the men's soccer program, which paved the way for NYC Relief counselors to recommend additional life services that are available.
Meneses, along with his daughter, Nicole, and student-athletes Wesly Antunez, Shavoy Campbell,
Adedayo Epemolu, Kymarlie Gayle, Antonio Josheps, Hans Merilan, Alex Munro,
Jonathan Panzenbeck,
Vladimir Pavlovic,
Fabrice Pierre-Paul and
Ebrahim Ramos all took part in the volunteer efforts.
"Community outreach events such as NYC Relief help our student-athletes make a difference in the lives of those around us while placing the Cardinals at the forefront of service to others," added Meneses.
Gallery: (7/3/2019) (M) Soccer Community Service
To learn more about NYC Relief, visit
www.newyorkcityrelief.org.
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