To the Editor:
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the amazing, generous citizens of Bayonne. First, we extend our thanks to Dr. McGeehan, staff, parents, and especially the students, of the Bayonne Public Schools for their recent food collection. Their response was overwhelming. We cannot thank them without also thanking the wonderful men who delivered the food. It was a tremendous amount of hard work, and they all did it without complaint, especially our friend Bob and his crew.
Next, we need to acknowledge collections made by the Bayonne Community Bank, the Mount Carmel’s Senior Club, Mount Carmel Rosary Society, the Knights of Columbus Star of the Sea, and the residents of the Back Bay Gardens, with a special note to our angel, Kathy Tibbets, who collects and organizes the food.
We also need to give a special shout out to the Bayonne Chapter of Unico. This special organization, under the guidance of Master Chef, Mike Masone, donates and cooks meals for the Assumption division of the Cluster Soup Kitchen every three months. Grazie to Mike, Gary, Bill, and all the other chefs who work so hard to make our meals so special.
Lastly, we recently held our 5th Annual Fundraiser Tricky Tray, to raise funds to help us through the lean winter months. We cannot express how grateful we are to our wonderful donators, who were too numerous to mention here, but you all know who you are. Without them, our event would not have been the success it was. Thanks to all those who attended, whose generosity was outstanding and proved to us, once again, that the generosity of not only Bayonne residents, but also those who came to our event from outside of our city is unmatched. An extra big thanks to the Bayonne Community Bank and Bayonne Hospital for their amazing donations.
Of course, it goes without saying that we could not have pulled this off without our dearest, kindest, most loving volunteer staff who donated not only their own money and gifts, but their time and energy into making this the best event ever. To our biggest patrons, the parishioners of Our Lady of the Assumption Church, who are the most remarkable among them all. These terrific people support our pantry year round, with not only food and money but also with their prayers. God bless you all!
JANICE MACHIN
MARIANNE SILVANI
Co-Chairpersons
Giordano Food Pantry at O.L.A. Church