WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (WCBS 880) — November marks the beginning of the holiday season, and one Westchester teenager is already getting into the giving spirit.
Tanya Shukla told WCBS 880’s Sean Adams she has always been the type of person who seeks to put others' needs before her own.
“I have a passion for helping people especially those who are hungry,” she said.
The Ardsley High School junior has found ways to help others her entire life, but recently, she found a new way to help those around her community through the Caring Cupboard – which she set up inside the historic Grace Episcopal Church in downtown White Plains.
The shelves are perpetually stocked with items that are free for anyone in need.
“We're not going to tell you like you have a limit of this many items – the whole concept is: Take what you need, leave what you can,” Shukla explained.
She adds that they are always looking for donations.
“Pasta, pasta sauce, cereal, cans – canned vegetables or fruits – dried fruits… dried anything. Basically, anything that is shelf stable,” Shukla said. “We don't only accept food, we also accept toilet paper, toothbrushes, water bottles – anything that is shelf stable, is very much appreciated.”
She noted that many people have already taken advantage of the service.
“One time I saw a lady who came by who missed her food stamps on Monday, so she came to the Grace Church to get some food,” she said.
The notion for the Caring Cupboard came to Shukla when she saw people out of work during the pandemic. She said while Westchester is most known for its famous and wealthy residents, there are plenty in the area who need a helping hand.
“Westchester, and Greenburgh, is such a diverse place,” Shukla said. “Usually, when we think of Westchester, we think of very rich families but, in fact, Greenburgh is extremely diverse we have a huge range of economic positions.”
Her nonprofit charity, Bridging Dots, is now looking for more locations to set up similar food banks, and they would like to add refrigerators.
“I am making a club in school and a lot of my friends are joining and interested, so we want to keep doing that,” Shukla said.
To donate to the growing charity, visit BridgingDots.org.