Administration
Reverend Erbin Cobian
President/CEO
Reverend Erbin Cobian founded Manna of Life on the principle that no man, woman or child should ever go hungry. His calling is to serve and empower the less fortunate. He himself was once upon a time less fortunate, he was hungry, homeless and felt hopeless. He slept on the NYC subway. He knows firsthand the meaning of homelessness. God turned his life around. He completed an apprenticeship as an ironworker, eventually landed a job working for the New York City Transit Authority, the very same place that he slept in when he was homeless. He recently retired from NYCTA after 27 years of service and is dedicating all his time to the ministry.
Gladys Roman
Vice President
Gladys Roman brings over 40 years of restaurant and food service experience to Manna of Life Ministries. She has volunteered with the organization for over 20 years, formerly serving as its first executive director and now as board vice president. Gladys and Manna’s team launched “Manna on Wheels” to deliver cooked meals to homebound adults. Formerly a sales director for a major NYC restaurant company, she also served as health coordinator, focusing on partnerships to improve lives and access to healthy food. Committed to addressing health issues in the Bronx, Gladys is passionate about continuing Manna’s mission.
Millie Hernandez
Treasurer
Millie Hernandez recently retired as Senior Sales Tax Analyst after an impressive 51 years and 51 days at MTI and is now channeling her financial expertise into her role as Treasurer on the board of Manna of Life Ministries. She has been an active member of Manna for over 12 years. Millie’s journey into community service began with crafting hats and scarves for community outreaches during Christmas. Today, she plays a pivotal role in coordinating hundreds of volunteers, to provide handmade warm clothing and essential supplies like socks and toiletries for the Bronx soup kitchen clients.
Mirna Cruz
Food Coordinator
Mirna Cruz is an amazing woman of God. She is a home attendant to her brother. Prior to coming to the ministry, Mirna worked as a medical assistant and she was a foster mom to rescued animals. She is a caregiver by nature, which is her calling.She cares for her ailing and aging family members, the community at large and animals. She is a firm believer in “loving your neighbors:” She coordinates all food planning, ordering and preparation connected with the soup kitchen and pantry. She is continuously updating her knowledge by attending workshops that focus on healthy nutrition. She is the kind of woman who would give you her coat off her back if it would keep you from being cold.
Evelyn Cobian
Administrative Assistant
Evelyn Cobian is a retired English Language Arts Special Education Teacher. She is a people person and enjoys collaborating with others on projects. She has excellent management skills and is adept at overseeing our special outreach events. She has strong organizational skills and is proficient at implementing and overseeing programs that increase efficiency strengthen volunteer/staff knowledge and abilities, to maintain the overall health of a company. Evelyn cares about people and is always willing to lend a hand in helping anyone in need.