Bensonhurst Nonprofit Fights to Sustain Critical Food Aid Amid Soaring Costs

Reaching Out Community Services, a longstanding nonprofit in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, is grappling with the challenge of maintaining its vital food assistance programs in the face of escalating operational expenses. After three decades of serving the community, the organization now finds itself at a crossroads, forced to make difficult decisions to ensure its continued operations.

Feeding the Underserved: A Mission in Jeopardy

Overwhelming Demand, Dwindling Resources

Reaching Out Community Services has been a beacon of hope for thousands of individuals and families in South Brooklyn, providing food and essential services to over 10,000 people in the region. However, the organization's founder, Thomas Neve, has revealed that the nonprofit is now struggling to keep up with the growing demand, having been forced to turn away hundreds, if not thousands, of people in need.The primary driver behind this crisis is the escalating cost of goods and services, which has placed a significant strain on Reaching Out's budget. As the prices of food, utilities, and other operational expenses continue to rise, the organization finds itself in a precarious position, unable to sustain its current level of service.

A Shift in Priorities: Difficult Decisions Ahead

Faced with this challenge, Reaching Out Community Services has been forced to reevaluate its priorities and make tough choices. Neve has expressed the organization's reluctance to turn away individuals in need, stating that it goes against their core mission. However, the harsh reality is that without additional financial support, the nonprofit may be compelled to scale back its operations or even consider closing its doors altogether.The situation has become so dire that Neve has reached out to local elected officials, such as Council Member Alexa Aviles, in search of financial assistance. Aviles has acknowledged the critical role that Reaching Out plays in supporting the community, and has expressed a desire to find a solution to the organization's predicament.

A Glimmer of Hope: Seeking Community Support

Despite the challenges, Neve and his team remain committed to their mission of serving the community. They have expressed a sense of desperation, stating that they are in need of a "miracle" to ensure the organization's survival.The future of Reaching Out Community Services hangs in the balance, with the possibility of closure looming within the next six months. Neve and his team are determined to explore every avenue, from seeking additional funding sources to exploring innovative ways to streamline operations, in order to keep their doors open and continue providing vital assistance to those in need.As the community rallies around Reaching Out, the organization's fate serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of the social safety net and the critical importance of supporting local nonprofits that are the backbone of underserved communities.