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Press Release
New York City Declares May as "Frontline Worker Appreciation Month"
Spearheaded by Frontline Builders, New York City joins more than 250 mayors across the country to honor our frontline heroes.
May 6, 2025
New York, NY – This May, the City of New York has officially declared May as Frontline Worker Appreciation Month, aligning with a national effort to honor the invaluable contributions of frontline workers across the country. Every day, frontline workers show up for us—from teachers shaping the future to healthcare workers saving lives, from firefighters and EMS rushing into emergencies— frontline workers keep our communities safe, healthy, and thriving.
Whether it’s lifting up New Yorkers facing unexpected medical debt, standing with communities after tragedy, or celebrating our frontline workers, the Mayor’s Fund continues to support the working people of New York City,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Commitment makes a real difference, and in a city where challenges are great, our unity is greater. Together, we’re honoring our frontline heroes to ensure that New York remains the greatest city in the world.
"Our frontline workers are the backbone of this city — showing up day in and day out, through every crisis and challenge,” said Deputy Mayor of Strategic Initiatives and Chair of the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, Ana J. Almanzar. “On May 6th, we honor their unwavering dedication with tokens of appreciation that reflect a much deeper gratitude. Through the Mayor’s Fund, and Frontline Builders’ donations, we’re proud to support this initiative and to continue investing in the people who keep New York safe and strong.”
“Honoring first responders in New York City is a tribute to their unwavering courage, sacrifice, and dedication—from 9/11 to everyday emergencies—they are the backbone of our safety and a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of our community,” said Executive Director of the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, Katherine R. Smith. “I thank Frontline Builders for celebrating all our first responders.”
“This official recognition for our frontline heroes is long overdue,” said Frontline Builders Director, Jason Lalak. “These selfless Americans consistently put aside their own needs to put their communities first - showing up for us and our families when we need it most. Their courage and compassion transcend the divisions that separate us today – just one of the many reasons they should be celebrated all year long.”
“Healthcare workers have demanding roles, and as they care for others, it is essential that they take time to care for themselves,” said NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO Mitchell Katz, MD. “I want to thank the Mayor’s Fund and Frontline Builders for their thoughtful donation for our frontline staff.”
The designation of May as Frontline Worker Appreciation Month is part of a broader initiative spearheaded by Frontline Builders, a national nonprofit organization launched in 2020 to support those who keep communities safe, healthy, and connected—even in times of crisis. Since its inception, the organization has helped companies donate over 22 million products to more than 1,400 frontline institutions in all 50 states.
Throughout May, New York City will join communities nationwide in celebrating these everyday heroes through events, public recognitions, and acts of gratitude. Frontline Builders has partnered with the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City and NYC Health + Hospitals to distribute in-kind donations to frontline workers.