Rotary Club of New York Launches New Project: FOOD SOSPESO
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK, NY – June 2, 2025
The Rotary Club of New York (RCNY) is proud to announce the official launch of FOOD SOSPESO, a new initiative inspired by the Italian tradition of “caffè sospeso” — the act of paying in advance for a coffee for someone in need.
What began as a simple gesture of kindness in Naples has grown into a global symbol of compassion and solidarity. Today, this concept has expanded beyond coffee to include prepaid meals and other essentials for those facing hardship.
Building on this beautiful tradition, FOOD SOSPESO aims to provide hot meals to New Yorkers experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, or other life challenges — starting with Harlem, one of the most diverse and dynamic neighborhoods in the city.
The initiative was unanimously approved by the RCNY Board of Directors at its April 10, 2025 meeting. A dedicated committee has been formed to lead the project’s implementation, coordination, and fundraising efforts.
What began as a simple gesture of kindness in Naples has grown into a global symbol of compassion and solidarity. Today, this concept has expanded beyond coffee to include prepaid meals and other essentials for those facing hardship.
Building on this beautiful tradition, FOOD SOSPESO aims to provide hot meals to New Yorkers experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, or other life challenges — starting with Harlem, one of the most diverse and dynamic neighborhoods in the city.
The initiative was unanimously approved by the RCNY Board of Directors at its April 10, 2025 meeting. A dedicated committee has been formed to lead the project’s implementation, coordination, and fundraising efforts.
FOOD SOSPESO COMMITTEE:
- Committee Director – Alexander Litvinov
- Co-Chair & Event Director – Anubis Abaddon
- Partnership Director – Cesare Costantini
- Cooperation Director – Tom Uhlman
- Sponsorship Director – Malika Abrous
- Marketing Director – Nataliya Ponomaryova
- Secretary – Andreas Runggatscher
- Treasurer – Sara Traverso
The first phase of the project will focus on Harlem, allowing the team to fine-tune logistics — from collecting donations to distributing meals to those who need them most. Meetings have already been held with several local restaurant owners who have expressed interest in hosting donation stations in their establishments. The committee has also begun collaborating with organizations, including the Veterans Center, Veterans Residence in Harlem, and local shelters, to ensure fair and effective distribution of meals.
You’re Invited – FOOD SOSPESO Launch Reception:
To bring together all potential partners, supporters, and community leaders, the Food SOSPESO Committee is hosting a special kickoff reception:
Harlem Sanctuary Social Club
2542 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10030
Thursday, June 19, 2025
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Free admission (RSVP required)
Harlem Sanctuary Social Club
2542 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10030
Thursday, June 19, 2025
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Free admission (RSVP required)
This event is open to restaurant owners, nonprofit leaders, veterans’ advocates, Rotarians, and anyone passionate about making a difference.
Whether you're looking to support your local community, collaborate with like-minded changemakers, or simply believe in the power of small acts of kindness — we welcome you to join us.
Whether you're looking to support your local community, collaborate with like-minded changemakers, or simply believe in the power of small acts of kindness — we welcome you to join us.
To RSVP or learn more, contact:
Anubis Abaddon, Event Director – (917) 771-8735 | Anubisabaddon7@gmail.com
Nataliya Ponomaryova, Marketing Director – (646) 707-2256 | nymmgnat@gmail.com
Anubis Abaddon, Event Director – (917) 771-8735 | Anubisabaddon7@gmail.com
Nataliya Ponomaryova, Marketing Director – (646) 707-2256 | nymmgnat@gmail.com
To support the project with a donation, visit:
GoFundMe – Food SOSPESO Project
https://www.gofundme.com/f/generosity-in-action-food-sospeso-project
GoFundMe – Food SOSPESO Project
https://www.gofundme.com/f/generosity-in-action-food-sospeso-project
With gratitude,
The Food SOSPESO Committee
Rotary Club of New York
The Food SOSPESO Committee
Rotary Club of New York