By Juan Soto
Bayside students organized a toy drive for the children of St. Mary’s Healthcare System that will run until Dec. 8. The students are part of City Councilman Paul Vallone’s Student Ambassador Program. Neighbors can drop off their toys at Vallone’s office, at 42-40 Bell Blvd, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
“St. Mary’s Hospital for Children is a vital organization, not only to northeast Queens but to New York City,” said the legislator. “I cannot think of a better way to give to those who are in most need and their families during the holiday season.”
Edwin Simpser, president of St. Mary’s, thanked Vallone’s student ambassadors for the effort. “St. Mary’s kids are facing complex medical challenges and I know that these gifts will put a smile on each child’s face and bring some holiday cheer,” he said.
Two allies in the toy drive are the Dwarf-Giraffe Athletic League and the Auburndale Soccer Club.
Christine Coniglio, manager of the Auburndale Soccer Club, said, the club was “thrilled to be helping the children of St. Mary’s Children’s Hospital.”
José Rodríguez, president of the Dwarf-Giraffe Athletic League, pointed out “this holiday gift drive affords us another avenue in which to serve and it addresses those children most in need.”
Juan Soto
