Public Employee Press

The season of giving at DC 37

By JOSEPH LOPEZ


Sleigh bells jingle-jangled over union headquarters as Santa Claus made his first stop of the season Dec. 7 for DC 37's annual Holiday Giving program. Over 150 union families hit hardest by these rough economic times - identified by social workers from DC 37's Municipal Employees Legal Services and Personal Services Unit - joined together to greet St. Nick, feast on a hot meal and share in the merriment of the most wonderful time of the year.

Children were invited to "Toy Land," where footballs, dolls, skateboards and stuffed animals stretched as far as the eye could see. Luckily, elves from the DC 37 staff and the Retirees Association were there to help each kid pick the perfect gift.

One young lady burst with joy when she found the toy she had wished for all year. "Her eyes lit up when she saw the board game Sorry!" said Council Rep Lisa Riccio, who was helping her. "It was all she wanted for Christmas, but she knew her parents couldn't afford it," Riccio said.

Kids were later treated to pictures with Santa, who looked a lot like Local 1320 President Jim Tucciarelli, and colorful creations from a balloon-animal maker.

"My daughter said, 'Mommy, I love you forever for bringing me here!' " said Local 1549 member Karana Estrada. Local 1505 member Nelson Acevedo agreed. "I've been with the union 30 years, and this is one of the nicest events I've ever attended," he said.

"Thank heaven for DC 37!" added Local 420 Retiree Rita Potter.

"It warms my heart every year as the DC 37 family comes together to help those most in need during the holiday season," said Executive Director Lillian Roberts.

The event was made possible by kindhearted toy donations from Locals 924, 957, 1070, 1320, 1455 and 2021, large contributions from Locals 371, 372, 420, 1549 and the Retirees Association, and additional gifts from Locals 299, 374, 375, 983, 1321, 1482, 1597, 1655 and 2054 and individual DC 37 staffers.