The Tom Zuppa Civic Association distributed 500 toys to local children after their inaugural holiday part and toy drive earlier this month.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“When we went out into the community, we made promises to always be there. This association was formed to keep those promises. With your support, we will be able to help children and families in our community, sponsor programming for our seniors, and be a voice for anyone who feels that they need one,” Zuppa said during the holiday gathering.
The holiday party and toy drive was held at Salumeria Ercolano on December 6th and the gifts were distributed at the Summit Plaza, Hudson Gardens, Marion Gardens, and the Van Wagenen Avenue Apartments on December 19th.
The association also sponsored and provided toys for the Jersey City Police Department West District’s event on December 23rd.
“I am proud to lead a group that is taking action and helping those in need in our community, especially because we have plans to be a positive influence year round,” added Civic Association Chair Renee Cassidy.
“We are finally seeing development and change in Journal Square, but we want to ensure no one gets left behind.”
The association also thanked their sponsors, which included the Hudson County Building Trades, EASRCC Local 253, County Commissioner Bill O’Dea (D-2) and the South Hudson Civic Association, Assemblywoman Angela McKnight (D-32), Four Fitness JC, Dr. Amer Syed and Hudson Medical, Alliance Health, Canopy by Hilton Jersey City, and the Dante Alighieri Society of Jersey City.
Anyone interested in volunteering or learning more about the Association’s community work can email tomzuppacivic@gmail.com.
“This civic association is dedicated to Ward C in its entirety. Sometimes we forget the communities that make this city what it is,” noted board member Thomas Hurley, who is also president of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters Local 253.
