To the editor:
It began in 2018, the Pascack Reformed worked with their summer intern, Cassie Nelson-Rogalski, and a generous donation from community leader Marilyn Clark to bring the community together over beautiful meals.
The idea started with the church’s desire to think about merging their hunger mission with an understanding of the dignity of each person.
Nelson-Rogalski helped the church develop a program that seeks to equalize all who come to the dinner, drawn from her experience with poverty as a child. To be a true cross-section of the of the community, the table service dinner is free and open to all.
In 2018–2019 the Community Kitchen was a true success. Donors include Wegmans, Ridge Diner, Momma’s Kitchen, Pies and Quiches, Davey’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, Marc’s Deli, and Bellissimo. The Rotary Club of Park Ridge joined in the fun and is now partnering with the church in supporting the program.
Pascack Reformed Church will continue with this community outreach for 2019–2020. We thank our very own Peggy Brizzolara, the driving force behind this outreach of caring.
The first date for the Community Kitchen is Sunday, Oct. 6, with reservation arrival times at 5, 5:15, and 5:30 p.m.
To volunteer at the Community Kitchen, please email the church office at pascackreformedchurch@verizon.net with “Community Kitchen” in the subject line. To RSVP as a guest, please make your reservation with the church office at (201) 391-4066. We hope you will come to the table as part of our community!