This past Tuesday, December 25, Queens Shmira's Meals for Heroes initiative warmed hearts and filled stomachs as they delivered dairy lunches from Naomi's Pizza and Falafel to NYPD station houses in Kew Gardens (102nd Precinct), KGH (107th Precinct), Forest Hills (112th Precinct), and the Transit District 20 office at the Briarwood subway station. With many non-kosher eateries closed and families celebrating at home, officers were touched by this thoughtful gesture from the Jewish community. It was a small but meaningful way to thank those who sacrifice so much to keep us safe.

This initiative was made possible thanks to the generous support of community sponsors, the Queens Jewish Community Council, Margaret Tietz Nursing & Rehabilitation, and this publication. Your contributions have brought smiles and heartfelt appreciation to the men and women who dedicate their lives to public safety.

Now, we’re gearing up for the next phase of this incredible mission: a New Year’s Day distribution of meals to NYPD and FDNY station houses. If you’d like to help show your gratitude to these everyday heroes, this is your chance! I’m seeking sponsors - individuals, shuls, organizations, or businesses - to help make this effort a success.

Your support will go directly toward providing meals that show our community’s appreciation for those who go above and beyond for us all year round. To get involved, please reach out to me, Shabsie Saphirstein, at 917-613-1565 or email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Together, let’s make this New Year a little brighter for our local heroes!

By Shabsie Saphirstein