Public Employee Press

A season of giving at the union

By JOSEPH LOPEZ

The holiday season may be the most joyful time of the year, but it can be tough on those suffering from hardships that make putting gifts under the Christmas tree a daunting task.

More than 200 families identified by DC 37's Personal Services Unit and Municipal Employees Legal Services were invited to the union's annual Holiday Giving festivities Dec. 2 to enjoy a tasty meal, receive a present, and snap a picture with the North Pole's most popular resident, Santa Claus.

The helpful elves from DC 37's Retirees Association guided eager children as they chose a toy to from the large selection of board games, skateboards, action figures and dolls. The tykes were then treated colorful balloon hats and animals, arts and crafts, and a photo-op with Kris Kringle - who bore an uncanny resemblance to Local 1320's jolly president, Jim Tucciarelli.

"This is such a beautiful thing that DC 37 does to show that they really care," said Local 420 retiree Rita Potter, who attended the event with her seven grandchildren, all under the age of ten.

"The union is a family and families joins together to work hard and help each other during difficult times," said DC 37 Executive Director Henry Garrido."I want all of the kids to take a moment and thank their parents for the job they do to keep New York City running."

"DC 37 is my guardian angel," said School Aide Edith Ayala, who is spending Christmas for the first time with her 15-month-old grandson, Jacob.

"I'm so happy that my family is together and can celebrate this holiday with the union," Ayala said.

Holiday Giving would not be possible without the support and donations from several DC 37 locals and individuals.