Serving Up Purpose: Inside the Mission of Cyclone Bagels & Concern Housing

Donna explores how Cyclone Bagels is redefining support for formerly homeless veterans by providing more than just housing; they are fostering empowerment through culinary employment, community connection, and a sense of belonging.

Key Topics Discussed

• The Mission of Concern Housing: Jim Mutton, Associate Executive Director, explains how Concern Housing has expanded over 53 years to serve approximately 1,800 individuals, focusing on supportive housing for formerly homeless veterans.
• Housing as Healthcare: The importance of providing stable, supportive housing—subsidized so veterans pay only 30% of their income—as the critical first step in a journey toward health and wellness.
• The Cyclone Bagels Model: Joaselyn Cruz, who transitioned from a high-stakes career at a two-time James Beard award-winning bakery to Cyclone Bagels, details how the shop is tailored to meet veterans "where they are".
• Veteran-Centric Operations: Shifts are intentionally kept short (four hours) to accommodate varying levels of mental and physical stamina.
• Therapeutic Environment: Beyond making delicious sourdough bagels, the shop serves as a venue for treating moral injury, fostering camaraderie, and creating a safe, inclusive community space.
• Ripple Effects: The impact extends to the neighborhood, where veterans act as mentors to local youth, creating surrogate family bonds and inspiring educational pursuits.

Guests

• Joaselyn Cruz: Director of Operations, Cyclone Bagels.
• Jim Mutton: Associate Executive Director, Concern Housing.
• Michelle Marcisak : Marketing, Concern Housing/Cyclone Bagels.

Support the Mission

If you are inspired by the work happening in Coney Island, you can support them in the following ways:

• Visit: Stop by Cyclone Bagels in Coney Island for a coffee and a bagel.
• Donate: Contributions can be made directly via cyclonebagels.com or concernedhousing.org.
• Follow: Stay updated on social media at @concernedhousing and @cyclonebagels on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.