Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI) founder Jeff Friedman has announced a new partnership with the West Essex YMCA.
“I never know when a potentially new, exciting partnership may present itself. That’s one of my favorite aspects of running LPI,” said Friedman. “This week was no exception. Joanne Browne, associate executive director at the West Essex YMCA on South Livingston Avenue, called ‘out of the blue’ with food boxes to donate. Naturally, I said ‘yes’ immediately, not knowing the volume or exact contents of the boxes. That’s just fine because I generally accept a generous offer and then figure out the details later!”
He continued, “Our LPI van, purchased with generous donations from Livingston residents, corporations, service organizations and other philanthropic friends, is now packed with at least 50 boxes containing nice selections of non-perishable family food items. Fortunately, I brought along ‘volunteer muscle’ Alan Levin to assist. We are both fully vaccinated, so Alan has recently returned to service with LPI.”
Friedman is inviting Livingston’s service organizations and corporate entities to partner with Livingston Philanthropies by organizing their own collections on behalf of the “homeless, profoundly poor and disenfranchised.”
“ ‘What’s needed?’ I’m often asked. The short answer is everything,” said Friedman. “Suggestions to begin collection initiatives are diapers in all sizes, wipes, baby food, Enfamil brand-only baby formula, and any new men’s clothing, underwear and other items. Large and extra-large represent the most requested sizes.”
Those interested may visit LPI’s website at njhomeless.org, or, he adds, “send me an email at njhomeless@aol.com. I genuinely enjoy working with our Livingston friends and neighbors.”
In closing, Friedman noted, “I’d like to quote actor and comedian Bob Hope, who said, ‘If you haven’t got any charity in your heart, you have the worst kind of heart trouble.’ ”
Photo: Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI) founder Jeff Friedman accepts a van-load of non-perishable food items from YMCA associate executive director, Joanne Browne, for immediate delivery to LPI’s Newark distribution partners. “This windfall came out of the blue and will feed many needy families,” commented Friedman.
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