Catholic Charities Community Services of Rockland’s Annual Blessing of the Soil Celebrates Community, Fresh Food Access, and Hope

Catholic Charities Community Services of Rockland (CCCSR) hosted its annual Blessing of the Soil celebration on Saturday, May 3 at its Haverstraw location, bringing together community leaders, clergy, volunteers, and residents to celebrate the start of the growing season and the organization’s mission of providing fresh produce and essential services to those in need.

This year’s theme, From Seed to Supper, highlighted the importance of access to fresh produce and the role of CCCSR’s on-site garden and greenhouse play in supporting local families facing food insecurity. Since 2010, the garden has provided nutritious vegetables to individuals and families who rely on the CCCSR food pantry.

The event featured a blessing of the soil by Deacon Jim Maher of St. Aedan’s Parish with additional clergy support from Monsignor Joseph LaMorte of the Archdiocese of New York.

In a show of community support, Johnny Ortiz and Alex Guarino presented a $250 donation to Dan Eudene, Executive Director of CCCSR, on behalf of the Town of Haverstraw.

Several dignitaries shared moving remarks:

Dr. Manuel Martinez, President of Dominican University shared a personal story, reflecting on how access to nutritious food shaped his journey. “Food contributions made a big difference in my life, and I wouldn’t be standing here today as President of a university—especially a Hispanic-Serving Institution—if it weren’t for the help I received along the way,” he said. “Fresh produce is so very important. I came to this country as a child and wasn’t familiar with vegetables or fresh produce. For me, comfort food was a plate of rice, black beans, and scrambled eggs. I remember my very first lunch in an American public school—it was served in a tray with separate compartments, and one of them had vegetables. I was amazed. That day introduced me to a love of vegetables I still carry today. I love broccoli—and don’t even get me started on Brussels sprouts! On behalf of that child—thank you.”

New York State Senator Bill Weber praised CCCSR’s vital work, stating, “Thank you for all your great work, not only today but every day. As I go throughout the County, I see so much food insecurity. As fast as the food comes into these food pantries, it goes out even faster. I know the challenges you're dealing with. I know there are concerns about funding. The New York State Senate will be back in session to help with shortfalls on the Federal level. New York State will commit to making organizations like yours kept whole.”

Melanie Rivera, Assistant to the Rockland County Executive Ed Day shared, “An organization like this is committed to each family in Rockland—whoever needs help at any time. On behalf of the County, I want to thank you for all you’ve done and all the hands that are part of everything you do.”

Guests enjoyed refreshments and as well as tips for growing their own fresh vegetables at home.

“Blessing the soil is both a spiritual and practical way to remind us that every seed we plant, whether in a garden or in the community, can grow into something that nourishes others,” said Dan Eudene, Executive Director of CCCSR, “We’re grateful for everyone who came out to support us and celebrate the work we’re doing together.”

Catholic Charities Community Services, The Warm Heart of Rockland, provides services to people of all ages, from every race and ethnic group from all over the County. The organization’s focus is to provide life necessities, including food, shelter, and other emergency assistance to those in need. The compassionate and professional staff speak English, Spanish, French and Creole. More information can be found at www.ccrockland.org or by calling (845) 942-5791.