Key Insights:
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Significant Fleet Expansion: The donation of two new delivery vans, valued at over $100,000, directly increases Citymeals on Wheels' logistical capacity to reach homebound seniors across all five New York City boroughs.
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Collaborative Dealer Support: The initiative was a joint effort within the automotive community, featuring a specific $20,000 contribution from local Ford dealers to facilitate the purchase, highlighting a unified philanthropic front by franchised dealers.
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High-Profile Advocacy: The presentation involved world-renowned chef and Citymeals Chairman Daniel Boulud during the opening day of the New York International Auto Show, leveraging a major industry event to bring visibility to food insecurity among the elderly.
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The Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA) donated two new delivery vans valued at more than $100,000 to Citymeals on Wheels during opening day ceremonies at the New York International Auto Show, underscoring the local new car dealers’ ongoing commitment to the New York community.
The keys to the vans were presented to world-renowned chef and Citymeals Chairman Daniel Boulud, bringing the mission of Citymeals on Wheels to life in real time.
“With these vans we can reach more older New Yorkers across the five boroughs,” said Daniel Boulud. “It’s about delivering a meal—but also a moment of connection. We are so grateful to our area’s local auto dealers who are such great supporters of our mission.”
“New York’s franchised auto dealers are proud to support Citymeals on Wheels and the vital work they do every day,” said Mark Schienberg, President of the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association. “These vehicles will help ensure that thousands of older New Yorkers continue to receive the meals and human connection they depend on.”
Citymeals on Wheels provides a vital lifeline of nutritious meals and personal connection to homebound older New Yorkers. Since 1981, the organization has delivered more than 72 million meals to those who struggle with mobility and access to food, helping them remain in their own homes with dignity.
“This generous donation will have an immediate and meaningful impact on our ability to reach homebound older New Yorkers,” said Beth Shapiro, CEO of Citymeals on Wheels. “Reliable transportation is essential to our mission, and these vehicles will help us deliver not only meals but also care and connection to those who need it most.”
Local Ford dealers generously donated $20,000 to help purchase the delivery vans that will help ensure elderly New Yorkers receive the warm meals and human connection they need.
