New York Couple Known for Helping the Homeless Passes Away
Tragic Loss of Philanthropic Duo
Jayson Conner and Jeffrey Newman, a couple from New York renowned for their charitable efforts in providing backpacks filled with essential items to the homeless, have both passed away within a short span. Conner, aged 48, suffered a heart attack at their Manhattan residence on June 28, as reported by his daughter, Jewlia Conner. Just four days later, on July 2, Newman, 58, also passed away, although his brother Glenn Newman did not reveal the circumstances surrounding his death.
The couple initiated their outreach in 2018, starting with a modest number of backpacks containing toiletries, socks, and other basic necessities. By 2026, they, along with nearly 40 volunteers, had successfully distributed over 180,000 backpacks to those living on the streets of Manhattan. Each week, volunteers convened in a rented space in Queens, where Conner and Newman meticulously organized supplies into more than 100 backpacks, which were then transported across Manhattan over several days.
Volunteers, trained by the couple, not only distributed the supplies but also engaged in conversations and provided emotional support to those in need. Jayson Conner was born on July 4, 1977, in Stockton, California. He pursued culinary studies and worked in various restaurants. His first marriage to Leslie Manfre ended in divorce. Conner faced challenges with drug addiction, which led him to sex work to support his habit, resulting in two years of homelessness after relocating to New York. He met Newman in 2004, and they began their life together. Although Conner returned to the restaurant industry, he did not overcome his addiction until 2015. He is survived by his daughter, Jewlia, and his son, Andrew.
Jeffrey Lawrence Newman was born on September 27, 1967, in Ardsley, New York. His father, Ted Newman, was involved in real estate and the restaurant business, while his mother, Joyce (Fishkin) Newman, managed their home and later became the first female president of the Jewish Federation of Broward County after the family moved to Florida. Newman graduated from Florida International University in 1991 with a degree in communication and media studies. Before co-founding their nonprofit organization, he worked as a journalist for a major news network, transitioned to financial consulting, and served as the founding president and CEO of Out.com. He is survived by his parents, brothers Glenn and Ric, and sister Beth Newman.