Mayor Zohran Mamdani joined Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov, a prominent figure in Queens’ Bukharian Jewish community, at the Kehilat Food Pantry in Kew Gardens Hills, where they distributed free kosher food to New Yorkers ahead of Sukkos. The pantry serves thousands of individuals and families throughout the community.

The visit comes as Mamdani has faced criticism from some Jewish New Yorkers over his positions on Israel and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His administration has also recently announced a new citywide initiative focused on combating antisemitism.

While the food distribution provided assistance to families ahead of Yom Tov, critics continue to call on the mayor to take a stronger stance against antisemitism and anti-Jewish hate.

Moed Tov! Суккот муборак! Today I joined Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov in Kew Gardens to distribute free food to New Yorkers in honor of Sukkot.

Thank you to Rabbi Nisanov for the reminder that community and service deepen our most joyful holidays. pic.twitter.com/4tlQD7e16v

— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) September 29, 2026