LAWRENCE, N.Y. — A ribbon-cutting ceremony June 19 marked the opening of a permanent home for the Veterans Farmers Market at 275 Lawrence Ave., representing a milestone for the program rooted in Lawrence-Cedarhurst American Legion Post 339.
Syd Mandelbaum, past commander of Post 339 and CEO of anti-poverty think tank Rock and Wrap It Up! created the market in May 2020 to help at-risk veterans reduce COVID-19 exposure while ensuring food security.
American Legion Post 339 members have been instrumental in the program's success, with volunteers actively supporting market operations and outreach. Post members have assisted with Thanksgiving and holiday initiatives for years while helping expand the Veterans Farmers Market.
"I noticed our at-risk veterans going to stores at the onset of COVID," Mandelbaum said. "We started giving food out in my driveway and used the community center when weather was inclement."
Volunteer Pat Alesia, a retired general who served 27 years in the New York Army National Guard, exemplifies the post's involvement after joining Post 339 during Mandelbaum's command.
The market serves veterans Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10-11 a.m., with community members shopping from 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. No paperwork is required.
"It's become a place for my veterans to have a social moment," Mandelbaum said. "Many are over 80 and don't have family. They can sit and have coffee and talk."
Post 339's commitment extends through the Legion Wrap It Up pantry, serving at-risk residents. When Gammy's Pantry ceased operations in March 2024, Post 339 members stepped up to continue food distribution.
In 2024, the market recovered 410,000 pounds of food from local donors including Costco, Trader Joe's and area bakeries, with Legion volunteers coordinating distribution.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Hempstead Town Councilwoman Melissa Miller helped secure the facility and presented citations during the ceremony, attended by current Post 339 Commander Marianela Lazana Plaza and newly elected Nassau County American Legion Commander Dawn Samuels.
"Our veterans have joined together in the spirit of patriotism and making sure no veteran goes hungry," Mandelbaum said.

Portions adapted from Long Island Herald reporting: https://www.liherald.com/fivetowns/stories/veterans-farmers-market-opens...