This week, Jeff “the Coat Guy” Friedman, founder and director of Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI), in his own words updates residents on the Livingston-based charity, which works to “provide for the poor, homeless and disenfranchised.” The organization holds a seasonal coat drive and a year ’round toiletries collection for the homeless.
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By Jeff Friedman
With so many things happening now, I think it’s important for residents to know about the people of Livingston who have stepped forward to support LPI. I especially want to thank our stalwart volunteers for continuing to make another season of philanthropy happen right here in town.
Chair Donation
Dan Koo, general manager at Nero’s Grille in Livingston, recently contacted me with a fascinating question. “Any use for chairs?” he asked. “We are in the midst of changing all of our dining room chairs, and will have old ones that we can donate.” LPI volunteer Neil Greco immediately stepped up, putting both his pick-up truck and his strong work ethic to use. Long-time LPI distribution partners United Missionary Baptist Church in East Orange and Bessie Green Community Soup Kitchen in Newark, each with community-focused philanthropic missions, welcomed Nero’s kind donation.
Thanks to Neil Greco
I’m sending a special shout-out to Neil, who is a multi-year LPI volunteer. While needed at his busy Allstate Insurance agency here in Livingston, Neil breaks away with his pick-up truck whenever requested to make vital deliveries to our distribution partners. Neil has been instrumental in moving the thousands of pounds of items we deal with every year. He handles it all with enthusiasm and a smile on his face. Bravo!
Trish Duffy Toiletries Challenge
The recent naming of LPI’s toiletries drive to honor our late friend, Trish Duffy, has resulted in a major upsurge of hotel-sized toiletries and new cosmetics received at LPI. The Trish Duffy Toiletries and Cosmetics Challenge has already stocked hundreds of festive gift bags to provide for the homeless. Right now, folks who are beyond “less fortunate” are brushing their teeth, applying lotion or washing their hair with items donated by Livingston residents and thereby honoring our friend Trish, who recently passed. Please continue to drop what you have at the offices of LPI’s partner, the West Essex Tribune, located at 495 South Livingston Avenue, next to ShopRite.
Vintage Fur Sale
LPI’s recent Vintage Fur Sale was a huge success. While nice garments continue to be available at prices ranging between $30 to $75 ...
