The New York Yankees, the 44th Precinct and the Food Bank for New York City partnered to host their third annual “Pop-up” food and toy distribution on Wednesday, Dec. 18.
Held at the 44th Precinct, located at 2 E. 169th St., the three entities were able to provide groceries and toys for over 500 families for the holidays. Among those on hand for this event were Yankees Manager Aaron Boone, 44th Precinct Captain Vladimir Garcia and Food Bank for New York City President and Chief Executive Officer Leslie Gordon.
“We are very grateful that we have this partnership with the Yankees and Aaron Boone and the Food Bank,” Garcia said. “We appreciate having this event. It’s a great event for the kids, giving out toys and food. We’re very grateful for this.”
Boone assisted in passing out food and gifts. He has attended the event each year since its inception in 2022.
“Sometimes we take for granted basic needs, like food on the table,” Boone said. “That’s not always the case for the people coming through today. To get to see that and hopefully lend a hand and make somebody’s holiday a little bit better means a lot to me and my family. It was important for me to do something in the Bronx, which is obviously synonymous with the New York Yankees. To be able to do something in the community, I’m very grateful for the last few years.”
In addition to toys, sporting equipment was also handed out at the pop-up. Nike donated the sports equipment, while Walmart contributed the toys. The groceries were supplied by Krasdale Foods. Additionally, those who received groceries also got a $25 voucher for local C-Town and Bravo supermarkets.
“The Yankees are in it to win it with us all year long, not only on the field, but off the field,” Gordon said. “They’re here shoulder-to-shoulder with us, saying hello, distributing food with us, giving out smiles, giving out hugs to the community. This is real. We consider them part of the family at Food Bank for New York City. We couldn’t ask for a better partner. It’s amazing.
