Local Hero Takes Care Of 100s Of Neighbors In The West Village

WEST VILLAGE, MANHATTAN — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented times. Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes.

This submission highlights George Cominskie, a community organizer at the Westbeth Artists Housing complex who stepped up for more than 380 of his neighbors during the coronavirus crisis.

Where the nominee lives:
New York CIty

Where the person who nominated the hero lives:
Westbeth Artists Housing

Name of the nominee:
George Cominskie

Name of the person who nominated the hero:
Christina Maile

Is the nominee considered an “essential worker”?:
No

What does the nominee do for work?:
Community Organizer

Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?
He organized the Westbeth (Artist Housing) Emergency Response Committee and under his leadership organized the distribution of free masks, free safety goggles, food deliveries to 384 apartments, many of which are occupied by seniors or physically challenged. He is in constant communication with elected officials and donors, provides counsel, and compassion. When one tenant passed away (not from coronavirus), he was the one the family depended upon to take care of things. He has galvanized volunteer efforts from all the residents and has worked tirelessly with management to provide a safe, healthy and positive environment for all residents and essential personnel. I think his efforts has saved lives.

What’s one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?:
He is one of the most hardworking and compassionate people I know. In the midst of all his work with Westbeth, he has volunteered for the past 20 years with Gods Love We Deliver, as well as with numerous other charitable and neighborhood organizations.

All photos included in this post are owned by identified third parties who have given Patch the right to use explicitly for the Patch Local Heroes series.

>> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.