BRONX, NY — On Saturday, December 18, 2021, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., The Bronx Zoo, Roadway Moving/Veteran Movers, The Bronx Borough President’s Veterans Advisory Council, and The Bronx VA Medical Center hosted their annual holiday toy drive to benefit Bronx military families.

Borough President Diaz was joined by members of The New York Army National Guard, members of The Roadway Moving team, Veterans Advisory Council members and Commissioner of the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services, James Hendon, to distribute hundreds of toys to Bronx Military families. The toys were provided by Roadway Moving/Veteran Movers, The Bronx Zoo, and The Bronx VA Medical Center.

The toy drive, which is an annual tradition that spans more than a decade, featured a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus for photo opportunities. After selecting toys, the families were able to enjoy the Zoo, free of charge, for the duration of the day.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has created a number of challenges for Bronx families in the past year and a half,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “As my time as Borough President comes to an end, I am thrilled that despite the pandemic we were able to continue our tradition in a safe way and partner with The Bronx Zoo, Roadway Moving, The Bronx VA Medical Center, and our Veterans Advisory Council on this amazing annual event. This is a great way we can give back to veterans and their families, and thank them for their service to the country during the holiday season.”