NJCDC’s Biggest Gift & Toy Drive Yet Brings Holiday Joy to Over 1,700 Paterson Children

Watch NJCDC's Christmas Eve Party video

For more than three decades, the holidays at New Jersey Community Development Corporation have meant one thing above all else: showing up for Paterson families with care, consistency, and community spirit. This Christmas Eve, NJCDC proudly carried that tradition forward with our 32nd Annual Holiday Gift & Toy Drive and Christmas Eve Party, delivering joy, warmth, and thousands of gifts to children and families across the city.

Held at our Community Charter School of Paterson’s Middle School gymnasium, the annual celebration welcomed nearly 800 children and adults to celebrate in person, while extending support to 1,700 children from more than 700 Paterson families citywide — the largest reach in the event’s history. By day’s end, more than 8,000 toys had been distributed, a powerful reflection of both the growing need and the community’s extraordinary response. From the moment doors opened, the space buzzed with excitement, alive with games, crafts, music, and a palpable sense of belonging.

Powered by AmeriCorps, Volunteers, and Community Partners

At the heart of the celebration was NJCDC’s AmeriCorps team, joined by staff and volunteers who spent months collecting, sorting, and preparing gifts to ensure every child who walked through the door felt seen and celebrated. Their dedication was matched by the generosity of community partners — local businesses, schools, civic organizations, and individual donors — whose support made this record-setting event possible.

“This event is truly a labor of love for our AmeriCorps members,” shared Gabrielle Foushee, NJCDC’s AmeriCorps Program Director and the event’s organizer. The Holiday Party reflects the spirit of service and teamwork that defines the program, with members and volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes to create a joyful, welcoming experience for every family.

Mayor Claus Returns to Spread Cheer

A highlight of the day came with the grand entrance of Santa Claus — played once again by Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh, who returned as “Mayor Claus” to greet families, pose for photos, and help distribute holiday cheer. His presence added a special spark to an already festive celebration, underscoring the citywide spirit behind this cherished tradition.

Throughout the afternoon, AmeriCorps members carefully distributed gifts to children and families, many of whom return year after year — some now attending with siblings or even children of their own. For families navigating financial hardship, the event offers not only tangible support, but also reassurance, connection, and a moment of joy during a season that can be especially challenging.

Three-Plus Decades of Showing Up for Paterson Families

"This event reflects the very best of who we are as a community," said NJCDC Founder and CEO Bob Guarasci. The Holiday Gift & Toy Drive helps ensure every child experiences the joy of the holidays with dignity and a sense of belonging. For many families, the Christmas Eve Party brings relief, happiness, and a powerful reminder that they are not alone.

Now in its 32nd year, NJCDC’s Holiday Gift & Toy Drive stands as the organization’s longest-standing tradition — sustained through deep, enduring partnerships. This year’s event was generously underwritten by the Daleo Family, longstanding champions of this initiative whose continued support has helped anchor this tradition for decades.

NJCDC is deeply grateful to the many donors who helped make this year's largest-ever Holiday Gift & Toy Drive possible, including TD Bank, Pascack Hills High School's Project Paterson Club, the Cranford Jaycees, and so many others whose generosity ensured that every child left with a sense of being seen and celebrated. NJCDC also extends special thanks to Board members Martin Vergara, Don Buckley, and Bill Pascrell III, who pitched in alongside staff and volunteers to help spread holiday cheer throughout the day.

With Gratitude — and Holiday Wishes

We extend our deepest thanks to everyone who made this year’s Holiday Gift & Toy Drive and Christmas Eve Party a success. Together, we ensured that every child left with not just gifts, but the joy and warmth of the holiday season. We’re grateful for the opportunity to carry forward NJCDC’s longest-standing tradition, and we look forward to bringing holiday magic to Paterson families for years to come.

Happy Holidays from all of us at NJCDC!