DHS Kicks Off Thanksgiving Holiday with New York City Rescue Mission

On Monday, November 21, Department of Homeless Services (DHS) Commissioner Seth Diamond joined former Mayor David Dinkins, Councilmember Annabel Palma, Councilmember Margaret Chin, Councilmember Al Vann, State Senator Daniel Squadron and other community representatives for the New York City Rescue Mission’s annual Thanksgiving Banquet.

Television personalities Kathie Lee Gifford, Hoda Kotb, and Miss America 2011, Theresa Scanlan, were also on-hand for the event, which offered an afternoon of fun and entertainment to children and adults from City shelters.

With the joyous sounds of live jazz filling the room, Commissioner Diamond and other VIP guests served those in attendance, also taking time to visit with clients and talk to them about their experiences.

“I am so honored to kick off the Thanksgiving holiday with the New York City Rescue Mission for the second year in a row,” said Commissioner Diamond. “I always look forward to meeting our clients and hearing about their progress first-hand, as they work to exit shelter and return to self-sufficiency. My biggest hope is that by next Thanksgiving, they will all be enjoying the holiday in homes of their own.”

Founded in 1872, the New York City Rescue Mission was America’s first rescue mission, with a goal to provide spiritual hope, food, clothing and shelter to individuals experiencing homelessness throughout the City.