When special needs student Andrew Posada was asked what he would like from Santa Claus this Christmas, he pulled a list from his pocket.
“I like Netta’s Christmas party,” he said.
The annual holiday party thrown by volunteer Netta Meltzer is now in its 26th year. Around 330 special education students in the North Bergen school district were invited to the event held on Dec. 15, which featured a DJ and pizza. Meltzer said that many of the students are involved in the recreation program she leads, the Special Young People of North Bergen, as well as in her summer camp.
Each child received a toy from Meltzer that she picked out and bought specially for them. She estimated that North Bergen contributed $5,500 to the program, while she spent over $3,000 from her own program’s budget to make the party a reality.
Funds were raised by donations from individuals, as well as proceeds from her annual “Netta’s Auction.”
“I like Netta’s Christmas party.” – Andrew Posada
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Even in a bad economy, they were able to invite more children than usual this year, Meltzer said.
She credited Mayor Nicholas Sacco, Hudson County Surrogate Donald DeLeo, the township’s commissioners, and well as her troop of volunteers, in making the program and the party successful.
Something extra
Not only did students and parents attend the party, but special education teachers were there as well.
Several former and current pre-kindergarten students ran up to Lisa Sanchez of North Bergen, giving her hugs and telling her stories.
“It’s good seeing them having a good time and being accepted in the community and receiving gifts and getting a little extra,” she said. “I know a lot of them look forward to it, so it’s nice.”
Fellow pre-kindergarten teacher Liz Gobea of North Bergen agreed. She said it is important to give these children a chance to participate, when maybe they wouldn’t be able to otherwise.
Essie Kolodinisky, a volunteer for more than 20 years, said that Meltzer began her efforts to fill the void years ago when she saw children heading to afterschool activities, but special needs children were headed home with nothing.
Kolodinisky walked around the party selling 50/50 raffle tickets. Meltzer donates half of the proceeds every year to a family who is in need during the holidays.
Bridging a community
Dharmesh Patel, the father of a special needs child, said that he attended the holiday party last year and plans on attending every year. He said that the party gives his son a chance to mingle with other kids.
“[We get to meet] other parents, other ethnicities,” Patel said. “We get to meet different people.”
Yolanda Ortega said that the party was good because every year her third grade daughter has something to look forward to.
Meltzer’s volunteers were at the party, making sure that no child felt left out.
“I’m making sure the kids get up and dance,” said Jackie Elwood.
Tricia Tirella may be reached at TriciaT@hudsonreporter.com.