Amidst the bustling cityscape of New York, a silent but pervasive struggle persists — food insecurity. Dr. Melody Samuels, founder and CEO of The Campaign Against Hunger (TCAH), stands in the heart of this battle, a beacon of hope for thousands of New Yorkers in need. Dr. Samuels, originally from Jamaica, has dedicated 26 years of her life to championing the fight against hunger, making an indelible impact in the lives of countless individuals.
In 1982, Dr. Samuels embarked on a journey from Jamaica to Brooklyn to secure a brighter future for her family. Little did she know that this leap of faith would lead her to become the chief administrator for the Full Gospel Tabernacle of Faith Church, where she encountered a single mother in desperate need of assistance. This encounter ignited Dr. Samuel’s passion and set her on a lifelong mission — to alleviate hunger and uplift the community.
In 1998, Dr. Samuels founded Grace International, which later became The Campaign Against Hunger (TCAH) to tackle food insecurity and promote community health. What started as a small pantry in Brooklyn has now grown to serve an astounding 14,000 families weekly across various locations in New York City, including the Rockaways in Queens. Despite the requirement for proof of identification, TCAH operates with compassion, ensuring that no one is turned away.
Dr. Samuels’ tireless dedication mirrors her commitment to creating lasting change and paying forward the support she received upon her arrival in the country. The Campaign Against Hunger’s annual Planter Award event, a pivotal moment in the fight against food insecurity, is not just a date on the calendar but a testament to the vital work being done to address food insecurity in New York City and honors champions who have contributed significantly to this cause.
Among the honorees at this year’s event are Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, who has been instrumental in advocating for food security policies, New York City Councilmember Farah Louis, a strong voice for the underprivileged, Renee McClure of National Grid, a leader in corporate social responsibility, David Mair of Kaiser Saurborn and Mair PC, a dedicated pro bono legal advocate, Teri Coaxum of Coaxum Connects & Coaxum Connects Wellness Foundation, a champion for community health, and Pastor Gilford T. Monrose, Faith Advisor, Office of The Mayor, a spiritual guide for the city’s most vulnerable.
The event, scheduled for June 14, also offers sponsorship opportunities, ranging from Presenting Sponsor to Silver Sponsor levels. These opportunities provide organizations with the chance to support and be recognized for their crucial role in fighting food insecurity. The Presenting Sponsor, for instance, will enjoy exclusive designation and extensive recognition across various platforms, including TCAH’s website and social media.
The annual Planter Award event is a celebration of honorees’ achievements and a crucial fundraising effort to support TCAH’s ongoing work. In a city where food insecurity remains a pressing issue, TCAH’s efforts have made a significant difference. The dedication of individuals such as Dr. Samuels and the support of organizations like TCAH offer a glimmer of hope and a promise for a brighter, more nourished future for all New Yorkers. Your support is vital in this ongoing fight.
