'True Empathy': Suffolk Community Hero Jo-Ann Rowland Feeds Hungry

SAYVILLE-BAYPORT, NY — Without community leaders, Sayville-Bayport wouldn’t hum along nearly as smoothly as it does. We’d miss their contributions in big and small ways.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize these often unsung community leaders and celebrate their contributions.

This submission comes from Donna Keller, a Sayville-Bayport reader who nominated Jo-Ann Rowland.

How do you know the community leader?

Jo-Ann works 24/7 making sure the Sharing A Meal soup kitchen is running 4 days a week, serving a hot meal to anyone who comes.

Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized or honored?

Jo-Ann has made endless sacrifices to ensure our local homeless, needy and hungry are provided for.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the community hero?

Jo-Ann performs this needed service purely out of the goodness of her heart and her true empathy for our guests.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.

Know a community leader who deserves a shout-out?

Shouting out Community Leaders is simple.

Just fill out the simple form below — photos are appreciated — and we’ll do the rest with stories on Patch, so the whole neighborhood can celebrate what makes them special.

Click here to nominate a Community Leader.