On Saturday, November 1, City Harvest partnered with U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s (NY-14) office to distribute canned goods and fresh produce to federal employees. The event took place on the Vaughn College campus, just steps away from LaGuardia Airport where many workers were impacted by the 2025 United States federal government shutdown.  

More than 260 federal workers attended and more than 9,300 pounds of food were distributed. Chief Executive Officer of City Harvest Jilly Stephens emphasized that visits to New York food pantries and soup kitchens were at a record high even before the shutdown. Stephens also said that the organization hopes to provide as much food as possible to New Yorkers during critical periods. 

“Vaughn is proud to partner with City Harvest to support our neighbors during this challenging time. Their dedication to feeding families affected by the government shutdown reflects the heart of New York—compassionate, resilient and united,” said Vaughn College President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo. “Vaughn College is honored to serve as a hub for this vital effort, and we thank City Harvest for their unwavering commitment to our community.”  

To learn more about City Harvest, click here.