New Rochelle pride and strength were front and center May 28 as New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson and Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital Vice President and Executive Director Anthony J. Alfano, joined New Rochelle Resident Esther Vacca who presented over 430 gift cards she purchased through her inspirational fundraiser from the city’s business community to Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital staff to thank them for their tireless work to help stop the spread and flatten the curve.

When New Rochelle was thrust into the national spotlight more than two months ago, Esther selflessly sprung into action to help the community she loves and where she’s lived all her life. With a desire to support local businesses and also thank the city’s hospital workers, Esther created ‘Straight Outta The Hot Zone’ t-shirts (a play on ‘Straight Outta Compton’) to raise funds to support the business community. To her surprise, she sold about $15,000 worth of t-shirts, which she then used to buy gift cards from over 35 local businesses and restaurants that were presented to Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital staff, including nurses, doctors, engineers, administrative staff, janitors and many others who bravely keep the hospital going 24/7.

“We were straight out of the hot zone, and this came straight from the heart for the city that’s my home,”

said New Rochelle Resident Esther Vacca.

“From the beginning of this crisis, the people of New Rochelle have demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience,” said New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson. “Esther is a great example of what it means to be New Ro Strong by finding a creative and selfless way to support the business community, our local hospital workers and the city she loves.”

“On behalf of Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital, we are so very appreciative of Esther Vacca for recognizing the selfless dedication and courage of our healthcare associates in caring for our community during this unprecedented pandemic. We thank all of the participating vendors whose support throughout has been nothing short of inspirational. Together we are” #NewRoStrong,” said Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital Vice President and Executive Director Anthony J. Alfano.

The presentation of the gift cards comes as the City of New Rochelle begins Phase 1 of re-opening, which includes non-essential curbside retail. For more information on which New Rochelle businesses and restaurants offer gift cards or certificates, please visit the City website.

For more information on New Rochelle, how local restaurants can participate in the city’s NourishALL program, how to volunteer and other important resources, visit www.newrochelleny.com/newrostrong.