The annual Toys for Tots luncheon held yearly by the JFK Air Cargo Association was once again a success. Members of the JFK Airport cargo community attended this fundraiser bearing presents for the disadvantaged kids who receive the Christmas surprises.
Association President Joseph Badamo, Silk Way Airlines, presided over the event and introduced the guest of honor, Joseph Saladino, the Supervisor of the Town of Oyster Bay welcoming and thanking all present for their support and donations.
The 50 foot toy table was four deep with toys or all kinds for all ages. There were even a few instructional fun games which hopefully will find their way to the future Bill gates or Rosalyn Sussman Yalow.
Children were not the only recipients of gifts however. A few airlines such as TAP, Cathay, and Latam contributed airfares as raffle prizes. This produced as much excitement among adults as the big gifts do the children.
The Toys for Tots program was started 20 years ago by Major Kilbride. He manages the whole operation, works with neighborhood schools, churches, and children’s centers distributing needed presents to underprivileged children. This year alone over a $1million worth of toys has been collected from a wide variety of donors, many who wish to remain anonymous.
At the Hicksville Toys distribution facility community leaders Reverend William Wilson, Councilwoman, Major and Joseph Saladino, Oyster Bay Supervisor attends the distribution of Toys for Tots to the needy children on Long Island. Supervisor Saladino attended the JFK Air Cargo Association Annual Holiday event which supports the United States Marine Corps. Toys for Tots Program and helps top make the holidays a bit brighter for children of lesser means. The USMC has been running this program for over 20 years under the stewardship of Major. With the assistance of Reverend They donate thousands of donated presents from individuals, companies, and private donors.
