As the season of giving continues, Columbia Community Service (CCS) is focused on supporting our neighbors. Through your generous donations, we’re already halfway to our goal of raising $300,000 this year!
Over the last decade, CCS has provided more than $3,000,000 in grants to nonprofits in Harlem and Morningside Heights that provide essential support and food relief. This year, in the face of rising costs, changes to SNAP benefits, and block-long lines to reach food pantries before supplies run out, your support is even more critical.
“If everyone looks around and thinks, 'someone else will step up,’ we’re in trouble,” said Kira Garfinkel, Senior Development Manager at West Side Campaign Against Hunger. “But if everyone says, ‘I’ll step up too,’ we’ll get through this ... and maybe come out stronger.
“What gives me hope is seeing people care. Volunteers, donors, partners, neighbors—everyone doing what they can. We’re all being asked to do more with less, but when communities come together, it makes all the difference.”
The generous donations from faculty staff, and retirees at Columbia, Barnard, and Teachers College make the work we do possible, so we ask you to donate now and consider a regular payroll deduction.
There are more ways to help this holiday season:
Ease the burden for families who must choose between buying food and buying toys for their children. This year’s Toy Drive will support nine community organizations that work with children. Find drop-off locations here. Donate toys electronically and have them delivered through our wish list here.
Help a neighbor stay warm this winter by donating a new or gently used coat, hoodies, scarf, or socks. Learn more and find drop-off locations.
