Celebrating 16 Years of Spreading Joy to Military Families, Both Active and Inactive, Across the Bronx
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Bronx, NY – On Saturday, December 14th, 2024, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs for the Wildlife Conservation John Cavelli, and Roadway Moving joined Santa and Mrs. Claus, Transport Workers Union of America, the Borough President’s Veterans Advisory Council, and others at the Bronx Zoo’s Dancing Crane Pavilion to distribute toys to local children of Bronx military families in need.
Celebrating 16 years, this event has become a tradition in Bronx County that uplifts and acknowledges those charged with honoring, defending, and protecting our nation yet who are too often faced with challenges during the holiday season.
The Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo served as a collection point for donations. Toys were purchased and donated at gift shops at the Bronx Zoo, the Central Park, Queens, and Prospect Park Zoos, and the New York Aquarium in Coney Island. The Borough President’s Office distributed toys to families of veterans and active-duty military members. Those who contributed by making a qualifying donation received a free ticket to the Bronx Zoo or New York Aquarium (based on the donation location).
As a holiday treat for those attending the Borough President’s toy giveaway event, Santa and Mrs. Claus were on hand for photo opportunities.
For the first time this year, veterans’ families were presented with free tickets, not just for the cost of admissions but also for unlimited access to the Star Attractions, including the Congo Gorilla Forest, Nature Trek, Jungle World, the Bug Carousel, and more.
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