OPERATION SANTA CLAUS PRESENTS RECORD AMOUNT OF GRANTS TOTALING $50,000 TO NOT-FOR-PROFITS AT ANNUAL CEREMONY
On November 24, Nick Spano, Honorary Chair, Operation Santa Claus, awarded record amounts of grants to assist developmentally disabled children and adults, totaling $50,000.
“Operation Santa Claus is a Yonkers tradition that began more than sixty years ago” said Senator Nick Spano, Operation Santa Claus Honorary Chairman. “The money fundraised from the generosity of our residents and businesses show their vested interest in building our community and commitment to our city.”
Several area organizations that serve persons with developmental disabilities were awarded grants, including:
- ACDS Westchester
- Sail at Ferncliff Manor
- Richmond Community Services
- Westchester School for Special Children
- Jawonio
- Camp Venture
“ACDS feels so fortunate to be supported once again by Operation Santa Claus. This support is instrumental in ensuring the high-quality programs and services our young students and their families deserve. It is especially appreciated given the challenges of the past 18 months. Thank you to all the donors, to Senator Nick Spano and his team, and to the broader Westchester community for their commitment to meeting the needs of vulnerable children with developmental disabilities.” Michael M. Smith, Executive Director ACDS
“Across the country, not-for-profits have been hit the hardest, resulting in less funding – at a time when those who we represent need it the most,” said Paca Lipovac, President/CEO, Richmond Children’s Center. “I thank Senator Spano for his steadfast support of over 20 years helping those who have often been overlooked.”
“Thank you so much to Operation Santa Claus. This money will go a long way to lifting our children’s holiday spirit during these trying times” Corinne Safarowic. Education Director of The Westchester School
For years, the generosity of Operation Santa Claus has helped us to provide state of the art adaptive and recreational equipment, essential to helping those we serve thrive far beyond expectation. said Patricia Saich, Sail at Ferncliff. Together, we have developed innovative pathways for improved communication, increased social inclusion and so much more. We are grateful to Operation Santa Claus for their support in advancing our mission to insure self-rewarding and independent lives for the people we serve, as they participate in and contribute to the life of our communities.
“Their valued partnership is an important part of our efforts to provide every student with the superior, individualized programs and services that build a lifelong foundation for personal independence, well-being, and self-esteem. Thank you, Operation Santa Claus, for your continued commitment.” The organizations will use the funds to purchase equipment and enhance programs that are not otherwise funded for their residents and clients with developmental disabilities.
Operation Santa Claus will hold its Annual Holiday Party Brunch on December 5th at 10AM at Castle Royale, 92 Waverly Street, Yonkers, NY (PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE) For more information or to purchase tickets please contact Gail Burns at 914-469-4835 or by email at gmb927@gmail.com.
