Global Medical Relief Fund’s ‘Evening of Hope’ hosts more than 200 at LiGreci’s Staaten

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — On an evening filled with the spirit of togetherness, compassion, creativity — and great company — more than 200 revelers gathered in LiGreci’s Staaten on Friday for “An Evening of Hope,” as a way to support the work of The Global Medical Relief Fund.

A vibrant mix of community leaders and local heroes were united by a common goal that night: to assist the local charity whose mission is to aid children who are victims of war, natural disasters, or other catastrophes worldwide.

The GMRF provides care, kindness and access to free medical treatments.

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Honored during the evening’s fare were Donna Jungreis, and James and Kathleen McBratney who received the Lifetime Ambassador Award.

The Community Partner Award was presented to The Ladies of Philoptochos Society, the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Stacey and Peter Montanti co-chaired the event.

From the podium

In addressing the crowd from the podium at the West Brighton banquet venue, Elissa Montanti, founder and executive director of the organization, spoke poignant words:

“The charity is about hope, humanity and healing,” she said. “I founded my charity on the premise to try to make a difference in the lives of children. My charity and my kids are my world. The supporters are my family and friends are all who make it spin — not to mention my band ‘Mercury Rising’ who keep it all in sweet tune. Thanks to Dr. Michael Gastaldi, Dr. David Hoffman and and Dr. Scott Kozen, who oversee my children and members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection who are my angels as are my volunteers.”

Robert W. Anderson, chairman of the Board of Directors, took the mic:

“For three decades she has been helping over 500 kids,” he noted. “These children who are suffering from devastating illnesses, from war, hate, and who are inarguably challenged. It all happened from the impact and unwavering dedication of Elissa Montanti. Thank you for your leadership. She continues to inspire all of us. We want to thank everyone from doctors to medical staff at Shriner’s Hospital who give children the futures they deserve, to employees and board members and what you all do each and every day.”

Anderson went on to speak about the board’s desire to extend the “Dare to Dream House,” — the Arrochar home where the children of GMRF receive lodging, food and comfort — to include an upper floor.

“Next year we are working toward that goal. Thank you to our supporters. Thank you for standing with us. Together we will restore hope and ensure no child is ever forgotten,” said Anderson.

A congratulatory video presentation highlighting the work of GMRF, showcased greetings from a number of health care professionals, including, Dr. Scott Kozen and his team at Shriners Children’s Hospital, Dr. Michael Gastaldi, a doctor of dental surgery; house pediatrician Dr. Arthur Buonaspina, and Dr. David Hoffman, who continues to describe Montanti as Staten Island’s “true angel,” and Daniel Messina, president and CEO of Richmond University Medical Center, who credited Montanti for her incredible accomplishments throughout the years, as well as members of the Customs and Border Protection.

Montanti explained the gala isn’t only the organization’s major fundraiser, it also serves as a homecoming of sorts for all of the children who she has helped.

“Together, we are building a brighter future, and your support tonight makes that future possible, she noted.

“The room at The Staaten was brimming with goodness, love and inspiration. Many times I weld up with tears for its overflow of compassion.”

Montanti would credit co-chairs Stacey and Peter Montanti for their unwavering dedication, dilgence and the positive impact they’ve had on the Global Medical Relief Fund throughout the years.

The children of GMRF

Montanti would then introduce children who were afforded medical care from GMRF:

“They are Tanzanian children with albinism,” said Montanti, an Advance Woman of Achievement in the Class of 2011, in speaking of the boys and girls who’ve stayed at the Dare to Dream House who come back for medical treatment year after year.

“These children are hunted for their body parts because of a sick superstition that dictates its good luck because they are albino,” and with that she introduced Emanuel, an artist who painted the Statue of Liberty which was part of a live auction.

“These are the children we help. I love these kids,” Montanti continued.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Frank Russo, director of field operations at the New York Office of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, who and a resident of Prince’s Bay, offered remarks on Montanti’s charity.

“Elissa represents the very best humanity has to offer,” he stated. “I represent U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). My staff here tonight represents the best we have to offer these kids who come through airports. They’re scared and when we greet them we give them a smile. Our jobs are sometimes not easy, but we love to help these kids. We are happy to be part of this organization. Thank you and God bless you all.”

The Honorees

Montanti would then go on to introduce honoree, Jungreis, who she’s known since childhood.

“Donna’s a nurse and she’s poured her love into everything she does.”

In accepting her award Jungreis commented: “Elissa said it all. She called me one day when she was in Philly where she takes the children for care and that was the beginning. I am so happy to be part of GMRF. Thank you to all of you who are part of Elissa’s organization.”

“On behalf of the Montanti family, my wife Stacey, and daughter, Gianna, I’d like to welcome all of you this evening to the 27th annual Evening of Hope, commented Peter Montanti before introducing honorees, James and Kathleen McBratney.

“James and Kathleen McBratney are well-known icons in our community — true beacons of light whose selflessness, drive, and generosity continue to uplift the less fortunate. Kathleen is a recently retired Board of Education teacher of over 31 years who served as a chapter leader for the UFT. They have served on many boards and Kathleen is a founding member of the Silver Lake Kiwanis Club.

“While everyone on Staten Island knows Jimmy Max, what many may not realize is how deeply Jimmy and Kathleen support numerous non-profit organizations, including the GRACE Foundation, our veterans and our very own GMRF, among a number of others. Please save the date: Jan. 15, 2026 — and remember, you must dine in at Jimmy Max, where 50% of the profits will benefit GMRF.”

In accepting his award, McBratney said: “They say behind every man is a better woman,’ in referencing his wife. “I also find it very humbling to be mentioned in the same breath as Elissa Montanti, a powerful, impressive and impactful woman….. If everyone in this room can do something for someone, what a better world we would have. Thank you and God bless you all.”

Peter Montanti spoke volumes about The Ladies of Philoptochos Society.

“We salute and honor the Ladies of the Philoptochos Society. The word “Philoptochos,” in Greek (Φιλόπτωχος) means ‘friend of the poor.’ Philoptochos is a nationwide, women-led organization. GMRF is honored to recognize this group of Staten Islanders. They are tireless with their efforts. Never underestimate an organization of tireless women. Thank you for your heartwarming efforts. And God bless. These ladies are dedicated to charitable works, community service and spiritual growth. Their Society is the compassionate arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, offering help to those in need with a mission that includes giving aid to the poor, the destitute, the handicapped, and the victims of disaster. They have been part of GMRF’s Allies-in-Care for over a decade when first learning about the organization’s mission.”

Dee Sidiropoulos, president of the organization accepted the award:

“Thank you for that introduction. When I received the letter from Elissa Montanti I was truly honored. The compassion and love shown by GMRF is truly inspirational. Thank you all for this honor.”

And with that the organization presented a check for $5,000 to GMRF.

The Entertainment

Musical entertainment was provided by deejay Vinny Toscano of Black Tie.

Mercury Rising, a rock group, joined Elissa in singing “Rise to Care,” an original tune written by Montanti and Nat Seeley that was performed together with Nawang Tsetin.

“Last night we did an acoustic version of ‘Rise to Care’ a song that my drummer Nat Seeley and I wrote for the charity,” said Elissa Montanti. “We also sang ‘Heroes’ because everyone in the room was a hero to me on Friday night.”