Village of Great Neck Plaza collects coats for needy

Joe Nikic

With the days of 60-degree weather behind us, the harsh reality of a cold winter has begun to kick in for those less fortunate this winter, though the Village of Great Neck Plaza has played its part in helping the cause.

The village collected jackets and coats for those in need this holiday season for the 27th annual New York Cares Coat Drive.

“With each drive we have participated in, we have turned to the Great Neck community to help us collect these valuable items that make such a difference to so many. As has been the case previously, Great Neckers responded immediately and donated 30 coats in the span of two weeks,” Village of Great Neck Plaza Mayor Jean Celender said. “On behalf of the Village of Great Neck Plaza, I would like to thank all those who donated a coat to someone in need during this season of giving.”

The village alerted residents the second week of December that it would, for the third year in a row, participate in the coat drive.

In a two-week span, the village received 30 donated coats and jackets from residents, down from the 85 donated coats it received during last year’s drive.

Brian Hetey, who is Celender’s assistant at Village Hall, said the village dropped off the donated coats Monday at the 111th Police Precinct in Bayside.

Celender said it was important for the village to remain involved with charitable organizations and give back during a time of need.

“One of the main functions of government is to give back to the people,” she said. “On the local level, in which the connection to the community is greatest, the Village of Great Neck Plaza has had the pleasure of partnering with many great organizations to help those who need assistance.”

New York Cares said its goal was to collect 100,000 coats this winter.

While the village ended its coat drive on Dec. 30, New York Cares is still accepting donations at their Manhattan Warehouse at 157 West 31st Street.

New York Cares is New York City’s largest volunteer management organization, running volunteer programs for 1,300 nonprofits, city agencies, and public schools, according to its website.

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