The Hoboken Police Department announced the third annual toy drive for late Sgt. Peter Zanin, who died suddenly just over three years ago.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“I am proud of the team of officers who dedicate time to making the holiday season merrier for the children of Hoboken,” Police Chief Steven Aguiar said in a statement.
“We all know families struggling these days, and anything our department and the city can do to ease that struggle and bring smiles to young faces, will be done with joy.”
The event officially kicked off at the city’s Community Tree Lighting last night with dozens of residents donating toys to the collection drive which benefits hundreds of local children and teens.
The department’s annual toy drive was renamed for Zanin three years ago, after “Peachy” as he was known, after his passing.
A father of three and a 20-year HPD veteran, Zanin was known for being an integral part of many events and initiatives that give back to the community, including the annual Toys for Tots toy drive.
This year, HPD is teaming up with the Hoboken Fire Department and the Hoboken Office of Constituent Services social workers to collect toys which will be given out at various events later this holiday season, including the Hoboken Grace Church Christmas Exchange and the Hoboken Housing Authority Winter Wonderland Party.
Residents are encouraged to drop off unwrapped new toys, books, and other gifts for local families in need at the following locations and times:
• Hoboken Police Headquarters, 106 Hudson St., 24/7 through Dec. 13.
• Hoboken Fire Department, 1313 Washington St., 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Dec.13.
• Hoboken City Hall, 94 Washington St., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Dec. 13.
• Hudson County Tree Lighting, Columbus Park, 7 p.m. on Dec. 1.
• Artisan Market, under the 14th Street Viaduct, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 3 and Dec. 10.
• 626 Washington St., 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 11.
“I am honored to be a part of this annual event that helps to kick off the holiday season in Hoboken,” added Capt. Gino Jacobelli who helped to organize the toy drive this year.
“This is a tradition, and a partnership, that brings the community together to bring more joy to the children and their families.”
For more information and updates on the toy drive, follow the Hoboken Police Department on Twitter at @HobokenPD.
Additionally, Hoboken families in need of toys or gifts for children of any age this holiday season can contact Jacobelli at jacobellig@hobokenpdnj.gov.
