On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, National First Responders Day, the Arts4All Foundation joined elected officials, New York City Police Officers, firefighters, doctors, paramedics, EMTs, emergency medical services workers, educators, 9/11 first responders, and the Queens community to honor the courage, sacrifice, and commitment of first responders across the nation.
The event, held in collaboration with the 105th New York City Police Department, recognized several distinguished individuals for their dedication to public safety. Honorees included Captain Douglas Moodie, Commanding Officer of the 105th Precinct; former Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney; Ivonne Sanchez, a former FDNY EMT and 9/11 first responder; and Dr. Jacqueline Moline, Director of Northwell Health’s Queens World Trade Center Health Program.
During the ceremony, the honorees delivered heartfelt speeches, reflecting on the crucial role of first responders and expressing gratitude to Dr. Sumita SenGupta and the Arts4All Foundation for organizing the event. Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein remarked, “I was honored to attend the National First Responders Day Celebration hosted by the Arts4All Foundation and Dr. SenGupta at the 105th Precinct and voice my appreciation to those who dedicate their lives to keeping New Yorkers safe and healthy. All of the honorees have shown an outstanding commitment to public safety, and I am thankful for their work.”
According to a press release from the Arts4All Foundation, New York City operates the nation’s largest 911 emergency communications system, handling around 10 million calls and dispatching approximately 40,000 first responders annually. Dr. Sumita SenGupta, founder of the Arts4All Foundation and event organizer, highlighted, “Between 24,000 and 25,000 times per day, New Yorkers across the city call 911 for emergencies, threats of imminent danger, and requests for immediate assistance in times of crisis. It is our police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, doctors, and emergency services personnel who, with unwavering commitment, respond to every call—often putting their own lives at risk for the betterment of our communities.”
Special recognition was given to 9/11 first responders, emphasizing the lasting impact of their service. Today, more than 130,000 9/11 first responders and survivors nationwide receive care through the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program. Dr. Jacqueline Moline, director of Northwell Hospital’s Queens WTC Health Program, stated, “It is truly an honor to receive the Visionary Leader Award today. But it has been a greater honor caring for first responders since the tragedy of 9/11, as one of the founders of the World Trade Center Health Program.”
Former Congresswoman Carolyn J. Maloney shared her ongoing commitment to supporting first responders, noting, “I am proud to have championed several key pieces of legislation alongside 9/11 first responders, including the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010 and the Never Forget the Heroes Act of 2019, which formed permanent programs such as the World Trade Center Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.” She also acknowledged the impact of the current government shut-down on services for first responders.
The National Responders Day Celebration concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony and community dinner. Local businesses generously contributed to the festivities: Ramandeep Singh Chhabra of Harry Sweets & Snacks provided full meals for officers of the 105th Precinct, 9/11 first responders, and community members, while Kaushal Naik, owner of Hot Breads, delivered a beautifully decorated ceremonial mango cake.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the everyday heroes who protect and serve New Yorkers, and the importance of continued support and recognition for all first responders.
https://newsindiatimes.com/queens-community-observes-national-first-responders-day/
