The New Jersey Veteran Support Alliance’s inaugural fundraiser at the Waterside Restaurant in North Bergen drew a crowd of roughly 400 people on Tuesday.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Veterans require more than just basic essentials; they also benefit from access to activities and entertainment that support their well-being and that of their families,” NJVSA President Eric Crafton told HCV today.
“This fundraiser will enable the New Jersey Veteran Support Alliance to provide these services and resources, in addition to essential medical care, for the foreseeable future.”
They deemed the event “Smoke Signals” since patrons had the option to enjoy a cigar on the outdoor patio throughout the duration of the four-hour event.
Other amenities at the event included a belly dancer who was able to swallow fire and balance a sword on her head, a photo booth, and tables for various organizations that provide services to veterans.
Dignitaries in attendance included North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco, Department of Public Works Commissioner Anthony Vainieri, Public Safety Commissioner Allen Pascual, Assemblyman Julio Marenco (D-33), and Police Chief Rob Farley.
“The Board of Commissioners and I would like to congratulate Eric Crafton on his successful fundraiser for his non profit the New Jersey Veteran Support Alliance. Eric Crafton currently works as a Police Officer for the Township of North Bergen and is a tireless advocate for Veterans in the North Bergen community,” Sacco wrote on social media this evening.
“As someone who has spent my life fighting for our community, I know that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Tuesday night’s event wasn’t just about raising funds. It was about rallying North Bergen and beyond to ensure our veterans receive the healthcare, support and respect they’ve earned. NJVSA’s work mirrors what we strive for every day in our township: lifting up those who need it most, with urgency and heart. Together, we’re proving that when New Jersey stands with its veterans, everyone rises stronger.”
Anyone seeking to learn more about the NJVSA can click here.
Eric Crafton has demonstrated time and time again that he is a man of action when it comes to identifying, understanding, and providing immediate and necessary care and treatment and delivery of services that so many of our Veterans need. In this matter, he always leaves his personal political views at the door, as it should be, because a Veteran is a Veteran, deserving of the love and support of the local, County, State, and Federal Governments He and She supported and defended when they served in our Armed Forces. Trust politicians who actually help Veterans. Don’t trust politicians who wrap themselves in our flag, though never served, and who say they love Veterans, yet gut vital programs that help them.