By Jeff Friedman
Editor’s Note: This week, Jeff Friedman of Livingston, founder and director of the Livingston Philanthropies, reflects, in his own words, on the importance of the organization’s year-round toiletries drive for the homeless.
Livingston Philanthropies is respectfully requesting new, small size toiletries and cosmetics from our generous Livingston neighbors. Donations of hotel/travel sized shampoo, conditioner, soap, tooth brushes, tooth paste, mouth wash, deodorant, razors, cotton swabs, body wash, lotion, baby diapers in sizes 4, 5, and 6, and more, are badly needed right now.
In addition, we are seeking donations of new, unopened cosmetics, including make-up, make-up bags, lipstick, powder, lotion, nail polish, scents and similar items. Unopened gift sets, perhaps holiday leftovers, are especially appreciated by those living below the poverty line in nearby communities. And, how about those free make-up samples and bags one receives when purchasing a certain amount of some pricey product? They are literally gold for those girls and women who don’t have financial access.
To whom are your donations going?
Let’s imagine a young, single mother who works full time. She may have just enough for rent, but what about the rest of the stuff of life? There just isn’t enough money to afford it. That’s why many parents with babies and older children dine at one of Newark’s soup kitchens.
Think about holiday times. Here in town, many moms and dads are running around to make it all happen for their beloved families. Then, time is short, so it’s dinner at one of Livingston’s fine establishments. Now, cross-fade to one of New Jersey’s poorest communities, just minutes away. One can, perhaps, visualize a mom and dad who are worrying about everything they can’t buy for their families, or for themselves. That is, in fact, a common scenario. Many such family discussions may occur immediately after dinner at wonderful Newark icons, such as the St. John’s Soup Kitchen on McCarter Highway; the Willing Heart Community Center on MLK Boulevard; the Bessie Green Community at North Reformed Church on Broad Street; and others around town.
I’m asking on behalf of these good folks. That’s where these donations directly go, often just days after Livingston’s kind offerings are left at the offices of the West Essex Tribune.
Donations may be dropped at the Tribune, located at 495 South Livingston Avenue, next to ShopRite. Donations may also be left at Ascend Physical Therapy in Montclair; and at the chiropractic offices of Dr. Gary ...
