Categories: Articles, Pat Stevenson,
In the heart of Harlem, where culture, resilience, and community pride run deep, Manna’s Restaurant stands as more than a beloved family-owned eatery. It is a pillar of service, a gathering place, and a beacon of generosity. At the center of it all is Betty Park, the warm, steady presence known throughout the neighborhood as the face of Manna’s and the driving force behind its charitable mission.
For decades, Park has embodied what it means to be a good corporate citizen in Harlem. Whether feeding hundreds during the holidays or partnering with local organizations, she has ensured that Manna’s remains deeply connected to the people it serves. Each Thanksgiving, the restaurant joins forces with Bethel Gospel Assembly to provide meals to families in need, a tradition that has become a cherished part of the community calendar. Throughout the year, Manna’s collaborates with numerous nonprofit agencies and churches, extending support wherever it is needed most.
But perhaps the most profound expression of Park’s commitment is the Manna’s Scholarship Fund, created in the wake of personal tragedy. After the heartbreaking loss of her son, Park transformed grief into purpose, establishing a scholarship program to uplift Harlem’s youth. Her vision was simple yet powerful: to help high school students pursue higher education and build futures filled with possibility.
This year, that vision continued to flourish. On June 23, 2026, Manna’s Restaurant—located at 320 St. Nicholas Avenue, hosted its annual Manna’s Scholarship Ceremony: A Celebration of Excellence. Ten outstanding students were honored for their academic achievements, leadership, and determination.
The ceremony opened with remarks from The Hon. Judge Tingling, whose words set a tone of pride and encouragement. Park herself then took the stage to distribute the scholarship awards, offering heartfelt congratulations to each recipient. The event concluded with closing remarks and commendations from Councilmember Dr. Yusef Salaam, whose presence underscored the significance of investing in young people.
This year’s scholarship
recipients were:
Felicia Renay White
Ari Newman
Kingston Serrao
Fiona Yang
Karimatou Barry
Victoria Rodriguez
Mekhai Smith
Halimah Jammeh
Sharjah M’Bodji
Amina Goldstein‑Poku
Each student left not only with financial support but with the encouragement of a community that believes in their potential.
Applications for the 2027 Manna’s Scholarships will open August 31, 2026, and students can apply directly through the restaurant’s website (www.Soulfood.com).
For Park, the mission continues: to honor her son, uplift Harlem’s youth, and ensure that Manna’s remains a place where nourishment, both physical and spiritual, is always on the menu.
Enjoy a free iced tea, lemonade or water with a $15 purchase’through July 19th. They are open 7 days per week for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
