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When temperatures climb closer to 100°F, life on the streets can go from unbearable to deadly. When the predicted heat index reaches 95°F or higher, the City of New York declares a “CODE RED”. During a Code Red, the BronxWorks Homeless Outreach Team will be working hard to help our most vulnerable neighbors get off the streets and into shelter.

Designated cooling centers are open during a CODE RED all around New York City and the Bronx. If you are living without air conditioning and need a place to cool down contact 311 or click here to find a cooling center near you. Please check on your neighbors, especially the elderly and sick. Cooling centers are open and available to the public. More info

Crystal Anceume, Food Service Coordinator, Older Adult Centers

Headshot of Crystal Anceume in a kitchen.

Crystal Anceume has dedicated her entire career to the food service industry. Crystal was raised in the Bronx, and she knew from a young age that she had cooking skills and wanted to pursue a culinary career. Crystal has held food service jobs since she was 16 years old, and she quickly learned that there is far more to the industry than just cooking. She attended Hostos Community College and earned her Associate’s Degree in Office Technology to diversify her skillset before furthering her career.

Throughout her many years of experience in the industry, Crystal has welcomed every situation as a learning opportunity for herself and her colleagues. Prior to joining BronxWorks, Crystal worked in various aspects of food service, including restaurants, catering, and events. She also gained experience in the social services sector when she worked at the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS). After looking for an opportunity to showcase more of her skills and support an organization uplifting her community, Crystal joined BronxWorks in 2023 as the Food Service Coordinator for Older Adult Centers.

“I am most passionate about the work I’m doing now with the seniors. I love interacting with them and I’m so glad we can make them happy through our food.”  

In this role, Crystal oversees all meals produced for nine BronxWorks older adult centers. She manages food preparation, delivery, inventory, ordering, site visits, and more to ensure that hundreds of older adults are receiving healthy and delicious meals in a timely manner every day. Crystal also works in conjunction with the NYC Department For The Aging, an on-staff Dietician, and the older adults at each site to create the menus.

“I’m proud when people see the seniors’ meals and they see the kitchen, because they see me. I take a lot of pride in it because it’s a reflection of me.”  

Outside of work, Crystal is a referee for high school girls’ basketball through PSAL. Crystal enjoys remaining connected to the sport, since she played basketball in college and her niece currently plays as well.

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