[PHOTOS IN EXTENDED ARTICLE]
Yesterday, at a community breakfast in Midwood, Brooklyn, over 40 Orthodox Jewish activists turned out to discuss issues of importance to the community with Public Advocate and Mayoral Candidate Bill de Blasio, as well as to thank him for his work on behalf of the community over the years. De Blasio represented some of the most heavily Jewish orthodox neighborhoods in New York during his time in the City Council, and has worked closely with leaders across the city as Public Advocate. Mr. de Blasio discussed his efforts to restore city funding for child care vouchers, the importance of quality education for pre-K students across New York, and the creation of affordable housing for expanding communities all around the city.
“Bill de Blasio has as strong a history as anyone working with the Orthodox Jewish community. He has been there time and again when the city budget and a bureaucratic government has left many families and organizations feeling left out in the cold. A de Blasio administration would have no learning curve on the needs of Jewish New Yorkers — he would be ready on day one,” said Leon Goldenberg, who hosted the breakfast event for Mr. de Blasio.
At the meeting, de Blasio was also thanked by non-profit organizations and leaders in areas affected by Hurricane Sandy for his work in securing necessary resources and security in the aftermath of Sandy.
“There is so much work do be done across New York to make sure every family, every neighborhood, every borough gets a fair shake from City Hall. I am incredibly proud of my history working with the Jewish community to support all the charitable work they do, helping people across the city and of every race and creed, as well as getting the funding the community and its institutions deserve. I am honored by the outpouring of support I have gotten from the Jewish community, and look forward to continuing my open door policy as Mayor of this great city.”
“The feeling people I talk to have is that Bill de Blasio is the right choice for Mayor, because of his history of results and responsiveness to the community”, said Ari Noe, a de Blasio supporter and community activist. “This morning, we heard Bill articulate his vision for the city, and I saw people nodding their heads vigorously. The Jewish community has a true friend in Bill de Blasio, and I am excited for his candidacy”.
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(YWN Desk – NYC)