Toy drive and fun(d) raiser

Little Emily’s face lit up as she rode the zip cord.
She was one of about 60 area children who played, got their faces painted and took pictures with Santa on Monday, November 29 when, for the first time ever, JM for Kids hosted a toy drive and fund raiser at Kids ‘n Shape in Howard Beach.
We have tons of photos from the event. Check them out here
In association with Hooper’s Helpers, more than 400 toys – and counting – were collected to donate to St. John’s Bread and Life, Toys for Tots, Momma’s House and Schreiner’s Hospital.
And $500 was raised through raffles as well.
But more than just a good cause, the day’s events provided tons of fun for families – for free.
Justin Martinez, organizer, said that about 200 adults showed up, with armloads of toys, so that their own kids – and those less fortunate – could enjoy the holidays.
“The people of Howard Beach came out to show their support,” said Martinez. “They didn’t just bring one toy, they brought many. Everyone enjoyed the fact that they could come out with the whole family.”
The impetus for the event, said Martinez, who grew up in Ozone Park and counts his uncle as his biggest influence, was a friend involved with Hooper’s. She had called him and said that they desperately needed help, he said.
So Martinez, an event planner by trade, went to local businesses – from Russo’s on the Bay, who donated a popcorn and cotton candy machine, to Vetro and Carosello Restaurants, who gave gift certificates – and the event took shape.
“I’m not surprised [at the event’s success],” said Nina DeBlasio, parent coordinator at P.S. 207, where Martinez was a student. “This neighborhood is a very giving neighborhood. The donations never cease to amaze me.”