BP Adams Joins The Salvation Army Greater New York To Distribute Toys To NYCHS Families In Brownsville

Press release from the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President:

December 24 2020

Photo Credit: Erica Krodman/Brooklyn BP’s Office

Brooklyn, NY – Yesterday, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams joined the Salvation Army of Greater New York to distribute a variety of toys donated to families who live in Howard Houses, a New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) development in Brownsville, for the holidays. The distribution event comes amid an unprecedented holiday season, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to devastate the city and make in-person gatherings more challenging.

Borough President Adams and the Salvation Army gave out 1,500 toys to spread holiday cheer, and reminded families to abide by all available public health guidelines, including wearing masks, getting tested regularly, and maintaining social distancing.

“In the midst of an extremely challenging holiday season, we can still show up for each other while remaining physically apart. Brooklynites have shown their generosity throughout this pandemic, helping to deliver groceries, medicine, and other necessities to their neighbors in need. Now, we are proud to partner with the Salvation Army to spread holiday cheer to families in NYCHA. We thank them for their partnership, and all the good work they do on behalf of all residents of Brooklyn and New York City,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams.

Since 1880, The Salvation Army has served New Yorkers and helped make their holiday seasons brighter. This year, against the odds, is no exception. In the greater New York City area alone, The Salvation Army is distributing 60,000 toys to families who would otherwise be unable purchase gifts for their children.

“We don’t want parents to have to choose between paying their bills and buying presents, and no child should wake up on Christmas morning thinking that Santa forgot them,” said The Salvation Army of Greater New York Director of Community Engagement Jennifer Groff. “We are so grateful that because of generous donors, we were able to provide toys to families living in NYCHA housing developments in partnership with the Brooklyn Borough President.”

“We are incredibly grateful for the support that Borough President Adams and The Salvation Army of Greater New York have provided to the families of Howard, Tilden, and Van Dyke houses during this unprecedented holiday season,” said NYCHA Executive Vice President for Community Engagement and Partnerships Sideya Sherman. “This wonderful act of generosity does so much to bring a sense of joy and normalcy for our residents at a time when it’s sorely needed.”

Borough President Adams and the Salvation Army of Greater New York also reminded New Yorkers that it is not too late to donate for the holidays. For more information, visit https://give.salvationarmyusa.org.

This press release was produced by the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President. The views expressed are the author's own.