Zoe Gianna Monterola

Zoe Gianna Monterola's Fundraiser

Help Reduce Food Insecurity and Loneliness for Asian American Elders image

Help Reduce Food Insecurity and Loneliness for Asian American Elders

let's celebrate my 22nd by celebrating and uplifting those that came before us!

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$325 towards $300

WHAT/WHY

If you're willing and able to, let's celebrate my 22nd birthday by supporting Heart of Dinner ! Their mission is to address food insecurity, social isolation, and loneliness among Asian American Elders across NYC. Currently, 1 in 3 Asian Elders in NYC live below the poverty line. Many face barriers that neglect their foundational needs, leaving them feeling unseen and alone. Our support helps Heart of Dinner reduce food insecurity, foster connection, and show our Elders they are cherished.

Shoutout Laura Kubiatko for introducing me to Heart of Dinner (ily laura). Hearing her first-hand volunteering experience of creating handwritten notes in each elder's native language touched me. I'm a simple girl. Talk to me about creating art for old people, and I'll cry.

In all seriousness, everything about this project embodies the kindness and collectivism we need now more than ever. Heart of Dinner partners with local AAPI and Queer-owned businesses to sustain their mission, and 100% of proceeds go to operational costs.
This is a cause close to my heart. I've spent the past year finding the vocabulary (and courage) to understand my Filipino-American Immigrant Identity through my creative work in Samahang Pilipino Cultural Night (s/o my brilliant co- Yliah and Prod). The beautiful life I have now, with all of you in it, is only possible because of the sacrifices made by my elders. The thought of how we honor the sacrifices and carry them forward has weighed on me a lot. This is my small way of moving in that direction.

But enough about me.But enough about me.

IMPACT

Heart of Dinner hand-delivers nearly 700 culturally thoughtful care packages every week to Elders who experience profound challenges due to food insecurity and isolation. 100% of proceeds will go to funding/operating the delivery of care packages with a $300 donation contributing to 10 care packages. Each care package is designed to nourish both body and spirit, and includes:

🍱 2–3 days’ worth of culturally thoughtful meals that we purchase from local small business partners owned by BIPOC, women, and LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs.

💌 A handwritten note of love and encouragement in their native language, offering comfort and connection.

🎨 A hand-decorated bag, lovingly illustrated to brighten their week and remind them they are seen and cherished.

TL;DR

‼️ Even a small donation can help provide vital meals and emotional support for Asian Elders in NYC. I will donate the remaining amount to meet our 300 goal (or $100 if our goal is exceeded). Together, we can create a ripple effect of love and care.

Thank you, guys, for taking the time to read this. I'm so grateful to have you in my life.

Love, Zoe