LI Businessman Donates $30,000 To Salvation Army Toy Drive

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY — Bob Jesberger has been the owner at Mid Island Collison for more than 30 years. The charitable businessman often gives back to the community. But most people didn't expect what happened recently.

While listening to a Salvation Army spokesperson on a radio station detailing their annual Angel Tree program was short of its goal, Jesberger reached out to donate. It started at $25,000 and once they arrived at his Rockville Centre shop, he increased the amount to $30,000.

"I do it for selfish reasons. It makes me feel good," Jesberger told Patch. "That should have put a big dent in their need."

The Salvation Army's Jennifer Groff said Jesberger is very humble about his actions, but "in my opinion, you're like a real-life Santa."

The $30,000 donation, and all others in the program, go directly to buy toys for children this holiday season across Long Island, the five boroughs and the lower Hudson Valley.

His large check will bring smiles to thousands of children, Groff said.

Jesberger, who regularly gives to the Salvation Army, feels his purpose is to be altruistic.

"No matter what goes on in my life, the pop that I get when I do something, I don't even have words to express it," he said. "To do something for somebody else, it's the greatest feeling in the world."

To donate, text TOYSHOP to 91999.