It was a busy morning for Georges Pierre, his colleagues and volunteers working to make sure seniors in the city had warm meals despite the snowy weather Friday.

“This morning was a little bit crazy for us,” Pierre said while organizing insulated delivery bags.

The group Encore Community Services works with seniors throughout Manhattan all year round. With some staff out due to COVID-19, this morning’s preparations required workers to take on additional roles.

“We love our job. That’s why we’re here today to help, because the snow outside you can see is really bad, but our job is to help the city help our senior citizens,” Pierre said.

What You Need To Know

  • Encore Community Services works with seniors throughout Manhattan delivering hot meals despite the weather. The group regularly delivers about 1,200 meals a day

  • Each hot meal consists of a protein and vegetable, which are sorted and packed by clients dietary restrictions

  • Central Park Conservancy crews worked Thursday night and early Friday morning using plows to clear roadways so those New Yorkers who choose to enjoy its grounds on snow days could do it safely

The group regularly delivers about 1,200 meals a day. Each hot meal consists of a protein and vegetable which are sorted and packed by clients dietary restrictions.

Some groups delivered meals on foot, which has its challenge.

“Getting through the snow and not falling,” said Phillip Maddlx, a volunteer with a church from Alabama.

Other workers used vehicles, but the fulfillment felt by workers here is the same.

“Seeing the people who can’t get out, can’t go get the food for themselves and being able to bring it to them and to see they’re always so grateful and it makes you feel like you’re really doing something,” said Cortney Preseley, while volunteering.

“This is a really big help, especially when it's snowing. You can’t really go outside,” said Susan Kornhauser, after receiving her delivered meals.  

Central Park Conservancy crews had to go outside to work Thursday night and early Friday morning, using plows to clear roadways so those New Yorkers who choose to enjoy its grounds on snow days, could do it safely.

“Our role in helping other people enjoy the park is helping people enjoy it safely. There’s paths for them to safely walk upon and really get to experience the beauty of Central Park that it is during the wintertime,” said Zack Holm, turf care manager with Central Park Conservancy.

Visitors here say the work is appreciated.

“We were really enjoying the snow but seeing the workers shoveling out the snow, it was crazy to think that’s what they do and that’s what helps New Yorkers and tourist like us enjoy the city,” said Austin Esquibel, tourist from Uruguay.