New York Air Brake Parent Company to Fund It
Knorr-Bremse Global Care Approves Local Proposal for Improvement Project
(Watertown, N.Y. – Jan. 31, 2014) The Watertown Urban Mission Food Pantry will undergo a 150,000 Euros ($205,000 at today’s exchange rate) renovation this year, thanks to a charity established by the parent company of New York Air Brake, LLC (NYAB). Knorr-Bremse Global Care has approved a NYAB project proposal that will improve the Food Pantry’s capabilities to serve a growing number of area families in need.
NYAB, a global manufacturer of innovative train control systems for the railroad industry and member of the Knorr-Bremse Group, employs more than 400 workers at its headquarters in Watertown. Based in Munich, Germany, Knorr-Bremse is the world’s pre-eminent manufacturer of braking systems for rail and commercial vehicles.
Knorr-Bremse established the charitable Global Care in 2005 to assist people in need all around the world. The projects it supports represent an investment in an economically independent future for the people concerned, driven by the principle of helping people to help themselves. Knorr-Bremse Global Care has implemented 130 aid projects in 42 countries since its founding, helping more than 350,000 people on four continents.
“The Watertown Urban Mission offers lifelines to thousands of area families and individuals when they need it most, and the staff and volunteers who make it possible represent the best in all of us,” said Michael J. Hawthorne, NYAB president. “As the Food Pantry continues to serve growing numbers of people facing difficult times, we need to ensure a modern, safe, and efficient facility that is sustainable, comfortable, and provides a welcoming, dignified experience for those seeking help. We’re grateful to Knorr-Bremse Global Care for its leadership.”
Since moving to its current location on Factory Street in 2004, the Urban Mission has seen the number of services provided to individuals triple to more than 35,000 per year. The Food Pantry offers relief to approximately 1,750 people each month.
Knorr-Bremse Global Care renovations are expected to be completed in September and include:
· Private meeting areas for assistance interviews and nutrition education programs
· More efficient heating and cooling systems, including new ductwork
· Replacement of the electrical systems
· A new loading area with counters and storage for processing donations and food bank deliveries
· Drywall and insulation to improve energy efficiency and climate control
· Repair and replacement of flooring, ceilings, and lighting
· An emergency exit
· An automatic sprinkler system
These upgrades will result in a more efficient Food Pantry, reducing expenses and allowing for the program to handle a growth in need. The pantry will also be able to more efficiently keep food at proper temperatures and to better store nonperishable foods to preserve quality and retain nutrients.
New York Air Brake worked with Watertown Urban Mission executive director Erika Flint to develop the proposal for Knorr-Bremse Global Care consideration.
“For more than a century, New York Air Brake has been a community leader here in the North Country, and the generosity of Air Brake and Knorr-Bremse today continues that legacy,” Flint said. “This pledge is a tremendous commitment to helping families in need right here in Northern New York. Knorr-Bremse’s impact on this community will be seen for many years to come in a food pantry that will be renewed, restored, and revitalized to serve thousands of people each month with the dignity and respect every person deserves.”
The Urban Mission is currently conducting a capital campaign to benefit all six of its major programs: the Food Pantry, the Impossible Dream Thrift Store, Christian Care Center, HEARTH II (Helping Eradicate All Roads To Homelessness), Bridge Program, and Critical Needs.
NYAB and its employees are longtime supporters of the Urban Mission. Most recently, in December 2013, New York Air Brake employees assisted the mission’s Critical Needs Program and Food Pantry through monetary and food donations, prize raffles, and a bake sale.
For more information about Knorr-Bremse Global Care, visit www.global-care.knorr-bremse.com/en/.
About New York Air Brake, LLC
New York Air Brake, LLC, a member of the Knorr-Bremse Group, has been serving the rail industry since 1890. Through the years, the Company’s basic philosophy has reflected a deep respect for the customer, and a commitment to providing quality products at a cost-effective price. An industry pioneer, employing more than 800 people, the Company is driven to deliver solutions for improved rail performance, safety, and overall operating cost. New York Air Brake is headquartered in Watertown, N.Y., with manufacturing plants in Riverside, Mo.; West Chicago, Ill.; and China Grove, N.C.; and TDS, a technology development unit located in Irving, Texas. For more information, visit www.nyab.com.