By Jeff Friedman
Editor’s Note: Essex County’s Homeless Connect Day was held recently, and Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI) participated. Here, LPI founder and director Jeff Friedman, in his own words, recounts the project.
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The 14th annual Essex County Project Homeless Connect Day, with over 70 non-profit agencies participating, is held each year to help clients escape the elements for a time and connect them with a variety of local resources who can assist them with getting their lives back in order. It’s all about information, introductions, services and helpful contacts.
I was there on behalf of Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. with my wife and LPI partner, Karen “Weenie” Friedman, to learn what it’s all about. Through the extreme generosity of Livingston residents, Livingston Philanthropies donated some 130 toiletries and cosmetics gift bags for distribution to those in need. LPI also provided 500 pairs of Bombas-donated socks for the homeless and profoundly poor.
I’m pleased to report that LPI will soon receive another 5,000 pairs of these high-quality and warm men’s socks. When out on the streets, taking care of one’s feet becomes a priority, especially in the cold weather.
It was fun seeing old and new Newark friends doing their good work for the community. Our wonderful and long-time distribution associate, Newark Emergency Services for Families (NESF), provided, among other items, Livingston’s kind donations.
NESF executive director, Amina Bey, commented, “Newark Emergency Services for Families was honored to once again participate in Essex County’s Annual Homeless Connect Day. We had personal contact with over 150 residents. We provided coats, socks, personal hygiene items and information on support services. NESF also provided haircuts onsite for the men.”
The vision of Newark Emergency Services for Families, Bey continued, “is a greater Essex County community where the well-being of children, families, individuals and values, are nurtured and supported to maintain a quality of life through self-sufficiency. I am so incredibly proud to lead this historic agency. NESF has been that ray of light, that lifeline, the way forward for so many people who are in crisis. The work that is performed daily by our amazing team and our supportive partners helps to change lives. It’s an honor.”
Elijah Perry, re-entry manager at NESF, said, “Everyone deserves a second break.” Jeannette Green, an NESF case manager, added, “NESF is pleased to share resource information and donated items. I love this event and do it every year.”
“Everyone deserves resources and things ...
