THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK

OFFICE OF THE HON. YDANIS RODRIGUEZ

CITY HALL

NEW YORK, NY 10007

(212) 788-7053

*** Press Release***

December 18, 2013

Contact: Russell Murphy (917) 584-9574

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COMMUNITY TEAMS UP TO ENSURE KIDS RECEIVE PRESENTS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

NYC Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez, NYS Senator Adriano Espaillat, Assembly Member Gabriela Rosa, Dad's Away Foundation, U.S. Marines Toys for Tots, Dominican Women's Development Center and OST Kids Club of Washington Heights/ Inwood Coalition join together to Give Presents to Washington Heights Children

New York, NY - On Wednesday, December 18, 2013, Dad's Away foundation partnered with Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez, State Senator Adriano Espaillat, Assembly Member Gabriela Rosa, U.S. Marines Toys for Tots, Dominican Women's Development Center and OST Kids Club of Washington Heights/Inwood Coalition to organize a toy giveaway for the local uptown community. Kids from the neighborhood, who may not have had the opportunity to receive presents this year, were each given one gift courtesy of these great partners.

Dad's Away Foundation is a charitable organization that helps to lift the spirits of children whose fathers are either away overseas or have left their families. According to Kids Count Data Center, 43% of all children in New York City live in single parent households, accounting for over 730,000 kids. As single mothers play a vital role in their children's lives, Dad's Away seeks to support their efforts this holiday season by giving gifts to their children.

This is the second straight year that this event has taken place with all included partners.

"I welcome any opportunity I have to give back to my community, especially during the holiday season," said Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez. "Single mothers are the unsung heroes of our community, many of whom sacrifice so much for their children. It is so good to see their efforts supported this holiday season and we thank Dad's Away for their continued support of this community. During this time of year, we must remember those who are not as fortunate and ensure that their holidays are as joyous as can be. These efforts are what the holiday spirit is all about and I am happy to see the look of joy on all these kids' faces."

"Helping the less fortunate, including children and families missing their loved ones during this time of year, isn't simply the spirit of the holidays; it's also the spirit of our Uptown community," said NYS Senator Adriano Espaillat. "I am thrilled to be a part of this toy giveaway and congratulate all those in the community who have stepped up to make these holidays special for all of our children."

"It is important to recognize those in need during the holiday season and to do all we can to help," said Assembly Woman Elect Gabriela Rosa. "I'm glad our community could come together to see this happen and I am so happy to see the children's looks of excitement as they open their presents."

"Sometimes life has a way of separating us from our roots," said Anthony Gurino, Executive Director of Dad's Away Foundation. Sharing in the magic of Christmas with all of these treasured children today is the best Christmas blessing one can ask for. They have helped bring me back to my roots and remind me of where I come from. "

"On behalf of the United States Marine Corps, I want to thank Anthony Gurino and the Dad's Away Foundation for their steadfast dedication to the wellbeing of children in Washington Heights. It is a privilege and a pleasure to help build strong family units because we believe a strong family makes a strong community. Merry Christmas" said United States Marine Corps Major Chuck Kilbride of the Toys for Tots Program.  

"The Dominican Women's Development Center and the families who benefit from this event are grateful to be collaborating for one more year with Dad's Away Foundation, US Marines Toys for Tots, Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez, P.S. 189, and the Out of School Time program at Inwood Community Services to bring a smile to the face of so many children in the Washington Heights/Inwood Community," said Rosita Romero, Executive Director of the Dominican Women's Development Center. "For the low income families that we serve, most of whom cannot afford as many toys as they would like to give their children, this is a gesture of love that is very much appreciated. We thank you for keeping our children in your minds for these holidays."