Even Through COVID, $20,000 Raised for Local Organizations
One of the nice holiday traditions in Yonkers is the annual Operation Santa Claus breakfast, held at Dunwoodie, where Senator Nick Spano awards funds to assist developmentally disabled children and adults. This year, due to COVID, the breakfast had to be cancelled but the tradition of giving continues on, as $20,000 was raised and given to four worthy Westchester organizations.
“Operation Santa Claus is a Yonkers tradition that began more than twenty 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.”
The four worth organizations that serve persons with developmental disabilities that were awarded grants were:
• ACDS Westchester
• Sail at Ferncliff Manor
• Richmond Community Services
• Westchester School for Special Children
“ACDS Westchester is honored to again be a recipient of funding from Operation Santa Claus,” stated Michael M. Smith, Executive Director, ACDS. “We are all tremendously grateful to Senator Nicholas Spano and his team for supporting the more than 120 children ACDS Westchester represents with disabilities. These critical funds could not have come at a better time considering the unprecedented challenges caused by the coronavirus.”
“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 Childrens Center. “I thank Senator Spano for his steadfast support of over 20 years helping those who have often been overlooked.”
“With the support of Operation Santa Claus, we can expand the level of services we provide for those we support,” said Leonard Spano, Executive Director, Westchester School for Special Children. “These funds will be put to good use – transforming childrens futures and helping them reach their full potential.”
“For years, the support from Operation Santa Claus has provided learning and recreational equipment to assist us in teaching our students to thrive beyond expectation,” said Patrica Saich, Sail at Ferncliff. “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.
Longtime Operation Santa co-Chair Ann Neville, who recently passed away, was honored for her service to Yonkers at the ceremony which was streamed to Facebook and can be viewed at www.facebook.com/nick.spano.35.
