In announcing Livingston Philanthropies’ largest merchandise donation in its history, founder and director Jeff Friedman, a 60-plus year resident of Livingston, recounted, “I never know what the next email or phone call will bring. Then, just a few days ago, it happened. I received an email at njhomeless@aol.com from a philanthropic Livingston shoe manufacturer. ‘Back in 2017, we donated about 200 pairs of shoes to your organization. It’s that time of year again. I have a bunch of shoes (brand new) that I would like to donate,’ he wrote to me.“Immediately, this sounded like what could be a sizable footwear donation. Prior to my arrival at the Livingston warehouse location, little did I know that a huge amount of merchandise was waiting – the largest, single-day contribution of ‘merch’ in the ten-year history of Livingston Philanthropies. I was awe-struck as our altruistic neighbor continued to bring out case upon case of high-end men’s and women’s sneakers, shoes and more, including evening bags and wildly-styled heels for the ladies. Footwear as seen only in major, upscale department stores. And now, through Livingston’s generosity, finding its way to Newark, New Jersey.”Friedman explained, “A decent pair of previously-used shoes is a blessing for the homeless living out on the cruel streets. Hundreds of pairs of new, very high-quality footwear is virtually unheard of. I’m leaning toward a Free Shoe Giveaway in Newark in the very near future. I will report on the planned disposition here in the Tribune, which has been LPI’s partner since the beginning.”The exact number of donated pairs is unknown at deadline time, he continued, “because the LPI van is still packed with the footwear. The vehicle needs to be cleared, and will be, in time for World Homeless Day in Newark this week. LPI volunteers will endeavor to make a difference for those without addresses or families living below the poverty line by distributing new (and already here at LPI World Headquarters, a.k.a. my garage!) men’s and women’s underwear, crew socks, toiletries gift bags, nail clippers, diapers and other family subsistence items.” Friedman thanked the Livingston-based charity’s donors. “LPI’s empowerment to purchase and distribute these products to the profoundly poor is a direct outcome of Livingston’s continued support. It’s a simple model: our neighbors donate, then we procure and deliver to our long-time Newark distribution partners. Or, some choose to shop themselves and drop items at LPI World Headquarters here ...
