Continued funding and a constant stream of donated hotel-size toiletries, new cosmetics, family clothing, shoes, diapers, women’s products and myriad specialty items have facilitated a full and busy spring season for Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI), announced founder and director Jeff Friedman. “Thanks so much to our Livingston friends and neighbors for making it all happen,” he said.
Friedman continued, “When considering a possible monetary contribution to LPI, it’s vital to know that we are a 100% volunteer organization. That means virtually 100% of personal and organizational contributions go toward ‘providing for the poor, homeless and disenfranchised.’ As mentioned in previous weeks’ Tribune pieces, it’s logical to request the consideration of keeping a portion of one’s philanthropic giving local – in this case, Livingston.”
The organization continues to raise funds for the pruchase of a truck or van for deliveries. “While saving the bulk of incoming monies to purchase a van or truck, funding allows to us ‘swoop-in,’ on a very limited basis, to fulfill immediate needs, as presented,” said Friedman.
He noted, “Regular Tribune readers know that Livingston Philanthropies’ volunteers have delivered tens of thousands of pounds of warmth and a variety of other items, with personal vehicles only, to those barely existing out on the streets or in shelters. But it’s gotten to the point where we really need a dedicated vehicle for deliveries. I’m hoping the generous folks of Livingston can help us out here. Contributions can be mailed to LPI, P.O. Box 247, Livingston, NJ 07039 or handled online at PayPal.me/lpinj.”
Friedman is also reaching out to automobile dealers who may have a deal on a previously owned vehicle for LPI. “We are in jeopardy of needing to reduce our current level of service to the community due to this serious vehicle situation,” Friedman said. “Our small band of volunteers, with limited personal vehicle availability, has its limits.
“Perhaps our town’s civic organizations will consider supporting LPI? The Livingston Elks has already stepped up with an amazing donation, as reported in these pages.”
Item donations may be dropped at the offices of LPI partner the West Essex Tribune, located at 495 South Livingston Avenue next to Shop Rite. Donors wh cannot get to the Tribune may email Friedman at njhomeless@aol.com for personal pick-up or to discuss LPI’s goals and objectives.
In conclusion, Friedman said, “It’s pertinent to quote author Maurice Sendak here, who wisely said, ‘there must be more to life than having everything.”
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