Queens Deli Raises Funds for Slain NYPD Cop's Family with "The NYPD" Sandwich

In a heartwarming gesture of support, Mario's Meat Market and Gourmet Deli in Middle Village, Queens, is raising funds for the family of fallen NYPD cop Jonathan Diller by selling "The NYPD" sandwich in his honor. Each sale of this special hoagie, consisting of chicken cutlet, prosciutto, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and arugula drizzled with balsamic glaze, will result in a $5 donation to Jonathan Diller's widow, Stephanie Diller, and their 1-year-old son, Ryan.

The deli's owner, Joe DiGangi, expressed his deep condolences and appreciation for the sacrifices made by police officers. He shared that Officer Diller's tragic murder sent shivers down his spine, as he himself has two young boys and could not fathom not being present at their hockey games. DiGangi's desire to support the grieving family led him to create the fundraising sandwich.

The announcement of "The NYPD" sandwich and the fundraising initiative will take place on Monday at 10 a.m. at Mario's Meat Market and Gourmet Deli, located at 75-55 Metropolitan Ave. City Councilman Robert Holden will join DiGangi in a press conference to show their support for this meaningful cause. Councilman Holden emphasized the importance of standing with the police force and expressed his gratitude to DiGangi for his community-minded actions.

Officer Jonathan Diller, who leaves behind his wife and young son, was laid to rest on Saturday after funeral services in Massapequa. The funeral was attended by hundreds of uniformed officers and former President Donald Trump. In recognition of his service, Officer Diller was posthumously promoted to the rank of detective.

Since Officer Diller's tragic death, the community has rallied together to support his family. More than $2 million has been raised through the Federal Law Enforcement Foundation and other contributors. By donating a portion of the proceeds from the $16 "NYPD" sandwich, Joe DiGangi and his deli hope to make a significant contribution to the family's financial well-being. With a massive social media following of 250,000, the deli expects the initiative to yield substantial support.

Joe DiGangi's father, Mario DiGangi, who opened Mario's Meat Market and Gourmet Deli in 1982 after immigrating from his hometown of Polizzi Generosa, Italy, passed away in 2011. However, his son has carried on the business and his legacy. Known for selling homemade sausage and freshly butchered meat, the deli has been affectionately dubbed the "King of Italian Style Veal Cutlets and Homemade Sausage."

Joe DiGangi understands that no amount of generosity can bring Officer Diller back, but he hopes that by supporting his wife, he can provide some peace of mind during this challenging time. The initiative by Mario's Meat Market and Gourmet Deli is a heartwarming display of solidarity and compassion within the community, as they come together to honor the memory of a fallen hero.