UCC Hosts ‘BeKind’ Distribution, Flea Market to Give Back

NEWARK — Greater Newark residents will get an opportunity to access various resources including free groceries and a flea market of clothing and items for all ages this weekend at United Community Corporation’s (UCC) annual “BeKind” distribution event in Newark.

BeKind will be hosted Saturday, June 8, at the West Side Park Community Center, located at 600 S 17th St., Newark. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Through the event, UCC staff and partnering vendors aim to provide vital resources and services designed to meet the needs of families and individuals.

Attendees can benefit from a free grocery distribution, ensuring access to nutritious food, donated small household appliances and be able enroll in Medicaid and Medicare through assistance provided by UCC’s partner Wellpoint. Newark Community Health Centers (NCHC) will be present to offer medical screenings and essential health information, addressing both immediate and long-term health needs. Various items for the event were donated by United By Blue that will be available to attendees, free of charge.

The event will be held in honor of the late Pastor Veronice Horne, a former UCC board member and a passionate advocate for those in need. Her dedication to service and the community's well-being is the inspiration behind the event.

“Pastor Horne was not only a UCC board member but a stalwart of community service whose passion and commitment is the heart of the BeKind event,” said UCC Director of Community Engagement Alena Minatee. “Resources are made available to the public at no charge and for those that are able items are available with a donation. BeKind encourages individuals to give what they can if and when they can.”

Additionally, the event will include enrollments for youth summer programs, helping parents find engaging and educational activities for their children during the summer break. The event will also offer a lively atmosphere for attendees with music and games for all ages to enjoy.

“BeKind should remind us that as we go through our day, whether you’re rich or poor, it doesn’t cost a thing to be kind to someone, and that results are long lasting,” said UCC Board Chairperson John Jewell.

BeKind was made possible by various UCC partners and supporters, including Wellpoint, Newark Community Health Centers, Newark Centers of Hope and Essex County.

For more information about the event or to get involved, visit uccnewark.org or contact info@uccnewark.org.

About United Community Corporation

United Community Corporation (UCC) is a Community Action Agency that operates with a mission of assisting low-income, disadvantaged, and at-risk individuals and families, including seniors and youth, to become self-sufficient and self-supporting while enhancing their quality of life and standard of living. For more information or to donate, visit uccnewark.org.