CNY Blessing Box: A Heartfelt Haven for Refugees in Syracuse
Syracuse, NY — As temperatures dipped and the leaves began to crunch underfoot, a lively crowd gathered on Sunday, less than ten minutes from campus, turning a chilly day into a warm family reunion. For the CNY Blessing Box, such communal gatherings are not just events; they’re a way of life.
“We want to embrace these people like family,” said Tai Shaw, the heart and soul behind the CNY Blessing Box. “That’s the kind of relationship we aim to build.”
Founded by Shaw, a local refugee, the CNY Blessing Box is more than a food distribution center—it’s a lifeline for new Americans, refugees, and immigrants in upstate New York.
“I’m a refugee,” Shaw shared. “I came here 40 years ago, and I get it… I know they’re hungry. I’ve been there—literally. I spent time in a refugee camp, and I know what it’s like.”
In a world where hunger doesn’t discriminate, the Blessing Box aims to deliver not just food but also a hefty dose of love, hope, and community spirit.
“Community is the beating heart of the Blessing Box,” Shaw explained. “It takes a village to keep this operation humming.”
Jay Subedi, a board member who once benefited from the Blessing Box himself, now helps ensure its success. Fifteen years ago, he was in line, waiting for the very food he now helps distribute.
“I came as a refugee, just like these people,” Subedi said, nostalgia flickering in his eyes. “I used to line up for food. Now, I’m on the other side, donating. Talk about a glow-up!”
With an emphasis on cultural identity, the Blessing Box serves everything from Halal meals to essential toiletries. As the event has blossomed since its inception, it stands tall as a beacon of hope.
“One person can make a difference,” Subedi said. “I want to show our new Americans that arriving as refugees doesn’t mean we have to live like them forever. We can empower ourselves and do something that truly matters.”
It’s clear the warmth of community shines through, proving that sometimes, a little kindness can be the biggest blessing of all.
Story written by: Kaitlin Campbell
