The fourth annual “Christmas Spirit” Toy and Coat Drive, conducted during the week of Dec. 11-17, helped some 600 families, making it ECYR’s most successful endeavor to date.
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| Monsignor Kevin Sullivan [l] and Yonkers Raceway president Tim Rooney present a toy to a very happy recipient. (Sean Hamrock Phoro) |
During the week-long drive, Empire City Casino patrons donated new, unwrapped toys and gently-used coats. A significant contribution of toys was also donated by California-based, Jams, a family-owned promotional merchandising company. The items were to be delivered to Catholic Charities, where they are to be dispersed to families in need.
“It’s important that we remember what the Christmas season is truly celebrating,” Rooney said. “We must always remember to give to those in need. We provide our customers with an opportunity to give back, and I am always astounded by their generosity. Together, we have made a difference to hundreds of families and we hope that our efforts will motivate others to do the same.”
“I extend my sincerest thanks to Mr. Rooney, Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway and all the generous donors who are helping us to provide help and create hope for our neighbors in need this Christmas season,” Monsignor Sullivan said. “The burdens many are feeling at this time of year can be overwhelming. Thanks to the commitment of wonderful partners like Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway, more than 600 of our neighbors will have a little lighter load to bear this Christmas. Because need has no season, it is my sincere hope that we may continue to partner with so many of good will in helping those who need our help throughout the year.”
