S:US Celebrates 10th Anniversary Dinner for a Better New York; Raises $1.2 Million
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 11, 2024
CONTACT:
Matt Costantini, [email protected]
The funds will support the most vulnerable New Yorkers in need of housing, treatment, and crisis services
Photos and videos of VIPS, Andrew Zimmern, chefs, and more can be found HERE
New York, NY – On June 5, 2024, Emmy-winning and four-time James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Zimmern curated the 10th Annual Dinner for a Better New York, an extraordinary culinary celebration to benefit Services for the UnderServed (S:US), a nonprofit organization founded in 1978, that is transforming the lives of New Yorkers with disabilities, people in poverty, and people facing homelessness. The evening raised $1.2 million to benefit New Yorkers in need of housing, shelter, treatment and rehabilitative services, employment and skills-building, therapeutic horticulture, and crisis services.
Zimmern, who also serves as a member of the S:US Board, was joined by 10 of the city’s top chefs for a night celebrating S:US’ life-changing work to build a better New York where opportunities are available to all.
Guests enjoyed tasting stations, each presented by a chef in-person, and a multi-course menu curated by Zimmern. The Dinner for a Better New York also honored Barbara Lehrer, President and CEO, The Beacon Group; and Samantha Magistro, CEO, Bronx Pro Group.
“At the heart of our mission at Services for the UnderServed is the relentless pursuit of social justice and creating opportunities for society’s most vulnerable. Our approach is deeply rooted in community investment, forming the bedrock of our efforts,” stated Perry Perlmutter, President & CEO of Services for the UnderServed. “We are at a pivotal moment in this city’s history, with increasing numbers of individuals experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, and mental health challenges. We deeply appreciate our dedicated partners and supporters who unite with us to advance our essential work.”
The 2024 Andrew Zimmern Award, which recognizes individuals who exemplify the values and characteristics that Zimmern lives by, was awarded to Susan Stockmar. Stockmar, a Navy Veteran, has faced unimaginable hardship, enormous loss, and considerable physical challenges. No matter the circumstances, Susan perseveres with determination, resilience, positivity, generosity, and optimism.
After serving in the Navy from 1976 to 1981 and again in 1989, Stockmar faced numerous personal and health challenges, including losing her home to natural disasters, battling spinal disease and cancer, and becoming wheelchair-bound. Despite these adversities, Stockmar remained steadfast and found support through S:US when she was homeless and needed a place to live and some financial assistance. Now thriving in her new apartment, Stockmar continues to look forward to resuming her volunteer activities with the USO and other veteran-related organizations. “I really don’t know how I would have survived without S:US rescuing me. I am forever grateful for their compassion, empathy, and understanding. With S:US’ help, I have a home,” she said, reflecting on the assistance she received.
Chefs who prepared the evening’s world-class menu included:
- Daniel Boulud joined by Sebastien Rouxel of DANIEL
- PJ Calapa of Marea
- Leah Cohen of Pig and Khao
- George Mendes of Amar
- Esther Choi of Mokbar
- Dan Kluger of Greywind
- Marc Forgione of Forgione
- Stefano Secchi of Rezdora
- Eric Adjepong of EA
- Calvin Eng of Bonnie’s
The Dinner for a Better New York took place at Tribeca 360.
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About Services for the UnderServed (S:US)
S:US envisions a city where everyone has a roof over their head, is healthy, productive, and can enjoy the social connections that create a life of purpose. S:US has a staff of 1,800 that provides $273 million in services. Their efforts are supported by various local, state, and federal government entities, foundations, corporations, and individual donors. Most importantly, S:US’ vision allows the organization to deliver the same quality of services to one individual or to thousands.