FEEDING BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT

since 1982

Dear Friends,

Pope Francis said, "In giving of ourselves, we find our true selves and the joy that comes from making a positive difference in the lives of others." This statement rings true at St. John’s Bread and Life each and every day where the wellbeing and lives of others is the core focus of our incredibly dedicated staff and volunteers.

We are delighted to highlight the 25th Annual Johnny’s Angels Awards event, which was a resounding success and stood as a true testament to our collective efforts. We extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to all who attended and supported Bread & Life. We especially thank our incredible honorees, whose stories inspired and captivated all who attended. Shout out to St. John’s University’s Performing Arts for literally setting the tone of the event with much appreciated vocal entertainment!

But the impact of our work extends far beyond a single event. Throughout May, our dedicated team of staff and volunteers worked diligently to distribute nutritious meals and pantry food items to various community centers, shelters, and individuals and families totaling in over 9000 people in need. Through our new Mobile Soup Kitchen, we reached even the most vulnerable populations, ensuring that no one goes to bed hungry.

None of this would have been possible without the incredible support and contributions from each and every one of you. We are immensely grateful for your unwavering dedication, whether through your generous donations, volunteering your time, or spreading awareness about Bread & Life’s mission. Your commitment is the driving force behind our achievements, and we cannot express our gratitude enough.

As we embark on the summer season, we are filled with renewed determination to build a stronger, more resilient community. We invite you to join us in this noble endeavor by continuing to support Bread & Life. And as Pope Francis encouraged, together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Thank you once again for being an integral part of our journey.

With gratitude,



Sr. Caroline Tweedy, RSM

Executive Director



THE 25th ANNUAL

JOHNNY'S ANGEL AWARDS

We were so delighted to bestow the Johnny’s Angels award on Shannon Riley and Nicia Fullwood, cofounders of the BELA Academy here in Bedford Stuyvesant, a charter school for girls with a mission to empower young women to be the leaders of tomorrow. The impact they have on the lives of young women will prepare them to be future leaders.

Dr. Andre McKenzie, PhD. the Associate Provost at St. John’s University received the Dr. Pamela Shea Byrnes award and to paraphrase his words, this means a lot. “Doc” as he is affectionately known, has touched the lives of thousands of students encouraging and supporting their dreams and promoting inclusion in all facets of the University and in the world. Andre is also a board member of the BELA Academy and joins with Shannon, Nicia and the BELA team in furthering their mission to empower young women to be tomorrow’s leaders.

Our Sr. Bernadette Award honoree is someone who spent his life in the service of others. Joe Martino, a founding board member and long-time volunteer passed away last June leaving a legacy of compassionate care and love for all people. Joe lived the Vincentian spirit and promoted it in all aspects of his life. He loved Bread and Life and in turn thousands loved him! He truly exemplifies the spirit of Vincent DePaul and is greatly missed. Feeding the hungry and providing basic necessities for those in need were closest to Joe’s heart and we could think of no better way to honor his memory than to name our new MSK in his memory.

Scroll down to view the recap video and photo slideshow for this event!

The 25th Annual

Johnny's Angel Awards - 2023

Recap Video

The 25th Annual

Johnny's Angel Awards - 2023

Photo Slideshow

Dear friends and spporters,

As a proud Charity Partner of the Brooklyn Cyclones, we're excited to invite you to a fun summer evening at the ballpark in support of St. John's Bread and Life!

Join us on Wednesday, June 28 at 7:00 PM as we come together as a community to enjoy a thrilling Brooklyn Cyclones minor league baseball game versus the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, while raising funds and awareness to combat hunger and poverty. Grab your tickets now and be a part of the team making a difference in the lives of those in need! You’ll also get to cheer on Bread & Life’s Executive Director, Sr. Caroline Tweedy, as she throws out the ceremonial first pitch!

Together, we can hit it out of the park for St. John's Bread and Life. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to have fun and support a cause that is making a significant impact in our community. Click below to get your tickets today and let's cheer on both our team and the positive change we're creating together!

*Note that this game coincides with Catholic Schools night and includes a promotion where children under the age of 14 eat for FREE upon entry with a paid ticket to the game.

Brooklyn Cyclones Maimonides Park 

1904 Surf Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11224

Congratulations to St. John’s Bread & Life’s Board Member and former President of St. Johns University, Fr. Donald J. Harrington, and St. John’s University Campus Minister for Athletics, Fr. Richard Rock, on reaching the extraordinary milestone of their 50-year Jubilees as Vincentian Priests!

This remarkable achievement is a testament to their steadfast dedication, unwavering faith, and selfless service to others. Throughout their priesthood, they have exemplified the virtues of compassion, love, and humility, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who have had the privilege of knowing them.

On behalf of the staff and Board of Directors, St. John’s Bread and Life extends our sincerest congratulations, blessings, and gratitude to Fr. Donald Harrington and Fr. Richard Rock on this momentous occasion. May God continue to shower them with abundant grace, peace, and joy in the years ahead.

For volunteering, contact:

Renelle Merstil at rmerstil@breadandlife.org