In reporting the continuation of a COVID-interrupted partnership, Livingston Philanthropies Inc. (LPI) founder Jeff Friedman noted, “Livingston neighbors and friends have done it again to help provide for the ‘homeless, profoundly poor and disenfranchised.’ ” Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI) continued its partnership with the Early Childhood Center (ECC) at Forest Glen in Bloomfield. Put on hold due to the pandemic last holiday season, ECC principal and former Livingston resident Linda Colucci and her students once again built a “Giving Tree” for donation to LPI. Last week’s Tribune reported an LPI partnership with another institute of education, the ECLC Chatham Campus; this partnership was facilitated by long-time Livingston resident, Michele Florio-Campisi. “In a similar fashion, it was Michele who introduced me to Linda, thus yielding this holiday affiliation,” explained Friedman. “The tree itself and boxes under it were overflowing with new winter jackets, hats, socks, gloves, toiletries, stuffed animals and more.” LPI volunteers made immediate deliveries to the Bessie Green Community and the Willing Heart Community Care Center in time for the agencies’ annual holiday shopping/give-away events. Families living below the poverty line receive new toys, stuffed animals and basics-of-life items. “For some, it’s everything under the tree, if there even is a tree,” said Friedman. LPI continues to invite community partnerships, Friedman noted. “Please send me an email at njhomeless@aol.com or visit our updated website at njhomeless.org. For those still considering year-end, tax-deductible contributions to their favorite charity, LPI continues to serve those who can’t provide for themselves.” LPI donations may be sent to paypal.me/njhomeless or by mail at LPI, 8 Country Club Rd., Livingston, NJ 07039.In closing, Friedman said, “I’d like to quote Pope Francis, who said, ‘To change the world, we must be good to those who cannot repay us.’ ”Photo: Former Livingston resident Linda Colucci, principal at the Early Childhood Center at Forest Glen in Bloomfield, presented Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI) founder Jeff Friedman with donations from her school’s “Giving Tree” created by students.
