The Vincent Gruppuso Foundation, “Puddin’ Kids 1st”, was established by the family of Kozy Shack Enterprises founder Vincent Gruppuso. Vincent Gruppuso was a bread deliveryman back in the 1960’s who discovered Cozy Shack Pudding at Cozy Shack Delicatessen in Brooklyn, and began selling it to customers on his route. A few years later, Vincent bought the pudding recipes, changed the name from Cozy to Kozy, and opened a small factory in Queens, which quickly grew and expanded into a major business with over 400 employees in 3 different plants
After Gruppuso passed away in 2007, his family felt the need to continue his work, not only with his business, but with his overall passion. Thus, the Foundation was founded to support programs and projects associated with children’s needs, particularly in the Staten Island community. In addition to supporting the St. George Theatre, the Vincent Gruppuso Foundation has also made significant contributions to numerous organizations such as Staten Island University Hospital, New Ventures Charter School, Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, Monsignor Farrell High School, Wagner College, and Staten Island Academy.