When Jeff Friedman’s friend, Denise Shannon, asked, “Are you still collecting toiletries and cosmetics? If so, I'd like to send out an email requesting donations on your behalf,” he was thrilled.
Shannon is program coordinator at The Film Institute at Montclair State University, College of the Arts, where Friedman had taught as a broadcasting adjunct professor for many years, and also served as director of its television center. Montclair State is his alma mater, as well, and Friedman found it especially gratifying to work with friends and colleagues there.
“As this effort represents a major expansion for the Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI) Trish Duffy Toiletries & Cosmetics Challenge,” Friedman said, “I was thrilled. Denise quietly commenced collecting for our major spring initiative.”
Only a month later, Shannon told Friedman she had “tons of toiletries and cosmetics in my office. Please pick up.” When he came over, she gave him three heavy boxes of hotel-sized toiletries and cosmetics, packed to meet the needs of people living way below the poverty line.
“I’m happy to help in this very small way,” Shannon said, adding that she received donations from faculty and staff across the university and will send out another email.
Shannon quickly learned that it was fun and easy to collect toiletries and cosmetics, Friedman said. “That’s why I’m encouraging Livingston’s service and religious organizations, along with schools, to conduct a Trish Duffy Toiletries & Cosmetics Challenge of their own.
“Livingston residents have been extremely generous with their donations, but I trust there is a lot more ‘stock’ in drawers and closets around town.”
Individual donations, the cornerstone of the drive, may be dropped at the West Essex Tribune, located at 495 South Livingston Avenue, next to ShopRite.
For private pick-up of toiletries, family clothing, shoes and more, residents may email Friedman at njhomeless@aol.com.
Special Requests
On behalf of Livingston Philanthropies, Inc., “Providing for the Poor, Homeless & Disenfranchised Since 2011,” Friedman shared two requests for consideration by Tribune readers.
The first is for new men’s socks, which can be purchased on sale in local stores or online. White crew socks are the best choice. “As we like to say about our successful ‘Personal Shopping for the Homeless’ initiative, Friedman said, ‘If you see something, buy something.’ ”
His second request is for a volunteer to create a website for LPI. He has all the content required including photos, verbiage, logo and more.
Volunteering one’s time and skill ...
