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Harvesting the Good

By Cynthia Knox


 As Thanksgiving approaches, CHHOP is preparing for the return of its annual Turkey Trot on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at the Gazebo in Downtown Peekskill. This event has become a cherished tradition, bringing the Peekskill community together to bring awareness to food insecurity and how each of us can h make a difference.

The only requirement for participation is to bring a frozen turkey, ham, or chicken,  (or Tofurkey for the vegetarians among us!) turning a morning trot into a meaningful contribution. By doing this, the community and CHHOP are “harvesting the good,” coming together to contribute to a larger cause collectively, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

All donations collected during the Turkey Trot will directly benefit CHHOP's efforts to provide Thanksgiving meals to those in need through their turkey giveaway. Additionally, contributions will support Fred's Pantry, ensuring that families facing food insecurity have access to healthy, nutritious food during the holiday season.

CHHOP extends heartfelt gratitude to the key sponsors who have made this event possible. A special thank you to:

·       New York-Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital (NYP): one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic health care delivery systems, dedicated to providing the highest quality, most compassionate care and service to patients. In collaboration with two renowned medical schools, Weill Cornell Medicine and Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, NewYork-Presbyterian is consistently recognized as a leader in medical education, groundbreaking research, and innovative, patient-centered clinical care.

·       Davoren Farm: an organic family farm located in Garrison, New York, and one of CHHOP’s farm partners. Their mission is to grow food for food pantries and to grow farmers as well. Davoren Farm has pop-up farmstands on occasional weekends, with the proceeds going to local food pantries.

·       Fidelis Care: provides quality, affordable health insurance coverage for more than 2.5 million children and adults of all ages and at all stages of life. From provider offices to schools, churches, food pantries, and community agencies, Fidelis Care works closely with hundreds of partners to reach residents in need and to be a resource in the areas the organization serves.

·       Win-Waste Innovations: delivers performance for the planet — with reliable waste and recycling solutions, a professional and passionate team providing unmatched customer care, and a commitment to sustainability at every step.

·       The Harry Chapin Run Against Hunger: commemorates the renowned singer-songwriter Harry Chapin. Beyond his musical acclaim, Chapin was a devoted humanitarian dedicated to eradicating world hunger. Inspired by Chapin's commitment, this annual run was initiated in Croton-on-Hudson, NY, shortly after his tragic death in 1981. Organized by volunteers as a registered 501(c)3 non-profit, the event raises funds to combat hunger locally, nationally, and globally.

The CHHOP Turkey Trot is not just about giving; it's also about coming together as a community. Bring your family, friends, and furry companions to join in the festivities. Whether you're a seasoned runner or prefer a leisurely stroll, there's a place for everyone at this event.

For more information about the Turkey Trot, click HERE.

Together, let's make this Thanksgiving meaningful for all.

World Homeless Day: Illuminating the Path to Change and Understanding

By Cynthia B. Knox

World Homeless Day is observed on October 10 and is dedicated to shedding light on the global crisis of homelessness. It serves as a reminder of the millions of individuals and families who lack stable housing and the basic necessities many of us often take for granted. Acknowledging World Homeless Day brings to the forefront the harsh realities faced by homeless individuals across the world.

In recognition of World Homeless Day, Cynthia B. Knox, CEO of Caring for the Hungry and Homeless of Peekskill (CHHOP), is shedding light on the perspectives and experiences of homeless individuals and the impactful actions that people can take to support those experiencing homelessness.

There are many common misconceptions about homelessness that lead to discrimination and negative stigmas. Most people hold an image of an unhoused or homeless person as wild-eyed, with a long beard and a shopping cart. Or as a “bum” on Skid Row with a bottle of Wild Rose nearby.

But, at Jan Peek House, CHHOP’s shelter for single adult men and women, over 40% of clients are employed, which is consistent with national statistics. To help break these stereotypes, CHHOP invites community groups into Jan Peek House. Volunteers and residents work together on gardening projects, art projects, poetry workshops, writing workshops, and training programs. The more we can help break down silos between people, the better the world is for us all to live in.

Economics is a major driver of housing insecurity and homelessness. Stagnating wages and the increased cost of essential goods mean many seniors, families, veterans, and all types of people cannot afford housing, food, childcare, and medicine. There is a plethora of data showing the significant adverse impact housing insecurity and homelessness have on health, education, and employment opportunities.

Homelessness and housing insecurity are traumatic. Imagine losing the place you consider your sanctuary, the place you go to after a long day to replenish, the place where you keep your family photos, awards, and the dishes a family member gave you years ago. Imagine losing that place and those things that keep you rooted and connected. Imagine leaving the neighborhood that you lived in most of your life, the places that you know, the neighbors with whom you may not be best friends but who lend you a hand with the trash?

CHHOP’s job is to work with someone as soon as they ascend the long flight of stairs to Jan Peek House. There is signage to let people know that they are welcome and that their inherent human dignity is respected. Once CHHOP attends to the person’s essential needs, the dedicated staff begins working to assist the client with regaining independence. It’s a tough journey, but people are amazingly resilient. CHHOP has former shelter residents who volunteer regularly with us at Fred’s Pantry and Jan Peek House. There are also former veterans who now live near the VA, where they can access needed VA services. In addition, CHHOP has clients from their domestic violence program who have found safety and stability away from the abuser.

Many people are shocked to learn that residents are required to pay their income to Westchester County or risk being kicked out of a shelter. Residents are required to pay over 90% of their income, whether it’s from employment, disability, or other income to the county. That means that people have no way to save for an apartment. A coalition of providers, including CHHOP, is working to get this harmful and draconian policy rescinded. This is where CHHOP can use the help of advocates.

CHHOP has such an amazing community that supports them, from generous financial support to conducting healthy food drives to collecting hygiene products to providing new clothing for clients who come with so little. One of the most impactful actions community members can take is to advocate. Help advocate for increased funding for essential services, increased SNAP benefits, and living wages. 

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