“Many of us, we are blessed, and life has treated us well,” he said. “But there are countless number of people [that are not]. I’ve watched this organization, and the Greek community for years, and it’s amazing how you all find ways of giving back. You believe in family, education, public safety, small businesses — and you believe in this city. For that, I cannot thank you enough.”

Community members Sarantos (Sandy) Vallas, Michael Niamonitakis, Michael Neamonitakis, the Girl Scouts of Holy Cross Church Brooklyn and Foodtown were all honored for a myriad of reasons. 

“Mike, Mike, and Sandy have been with us since the beginning,” said Maria Vasaka-Monioudis, president of HCBOC. “They’ve been very generous donors and been helping us keep the facility open, the lights on, and the shelves stocked. The Girl Scouts have helped with their time and efforts; and Foodtown has sent food to the outreach center every month.” 

To date, HCBOC has given over 110,000 meals out to the homeless in NYC, according to Vasaka-Monioudis. In 2021, it opened up a brick and mortar location on Fourth Avenue and 61st Street, providing for over 30,000 families since its opening.

“This is done strictly for love of our community,” she pointed out.

Zoe Koutsoupakis, vice president and founder of HCBOC, referred to being part of the organization as her dream.

“Ever since I came to this country, my mission was to help the needy,” she said. “Eventually, we hope to expand to other locations — because we know how much love the community has shown us — not only the Greek community, but organizations like the Kiwanis Club of Brooklyn who also support and help us tremendously.”  

Brannan, who allocated $5,000 for the cause, matching his contribution of last year, pointed out that it’s important to recognize the bedrock, the roots of the Greek community, in Bay Ridge. 

“Their strength, spirit of faith, family — that’s what this neighborhood is all about. And I am so proud to support this outreach center.” 

“Our goal is to alleviate some of the pain in our society,” said Fr. Gerasimos Makris, spiritual adviser of HCBOC. “And it’s been a great thing for our community for our churches to work together to help the poor and the needy.”

“You’ve made a difference, and that’s really something to talk about,” Golden said. “The services that are needed in our community are very [necessary]. So thank you, thank you, thank you!”

Cebu owner Ted Nugent said the event was “an incredible thing to be a part of,” adding that “If there is anything we can ever do to help the neighborhood, and contribute in a positive way, we are here.” 

HCBOC is a nonprofit organization serving New York families and individuals in need.  Its goal is to provide holistic care that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs in order to improve economic and social well-being.