District 10 Candidate Brian Robinson Volunteers at Masbia

By Yehudit Garmaise

Yidden providing food to a melting pot of hungry New Yorkers is what District 10 Candidate Brian Robinso saw when he volunteered at Masbia’s soup kitchen at 5402 New Utrecht Ave. yesterday afternoon.

Among the 30 people who came to Masbia after “making reservations,” were not only Yidden, but “African-Americans, Asian-Americans, and many others,” reported Robinson. “Masbia is trying to accommodate those who are hungry in the city.

“The computerized component makes it very easy for anyone who is hungry to enroll for food to eat there or to-go.”

When asked what is served at Masbia, Robinson said, “The food is really good. It is quality, fresh stuff.”

“Everybody got half a chicken, rice, good vegetables, and a good, quality bean soup,” said Robinson, who is running for a much sought-after seat, as 19 other candidates are running in the Nov. 8 election. “The ingredients struck me as good quality, and that is what stood out to me.”

“You look at the food, and you want to eat it,” Robinson said with a laugh. “I can see the pride that Masbia's Executive Director Alexander Rappaport takes in getting the right food ready for the people.” 

“In New York, the Jewish community is sometimes seen as only looking out for their own, but it is just not true. What I witnessed there is: Masbia serves all sorts of people.”

Pointing out the assistance, clothing, and food Masbia provided to the survivors of a terrible fire in the Bronx on Jan. 9, Robinson added, “The Orthodox Jewish community really shows genuine passion and concern for the community, but not just its own community.

“I was thoroughly impressed with the whole operation. I think it is such a good example of humans doing right by others who are less fortunate.

I was humbled and honored to be invited and happy to help out for a little while yesterday. I will be back again soon.”