To the Editor:
The truly great thing about most people in our town is, as much as we don’t realize it, we do truly care about one another. We, as Bayonnians, will give what we can when there is tragedy, heartbreak, natural disaster, or even something as simple as helping someone cross the street.
The past month or two has been quite difficult for our community. We have experienced water issues, fires, and other unspeakable loss of life. It’s bad enough that it is the middle of winter and it’s tough out there.
I would like to introduce all of you to a new community-oriented organization called the Bayonne Initiative. It was started by a group of like-minded individuals, who have a love for our hometown and want to give back to our community in any way we can. We want to be there for people in need.
Although we have only just launched in the past three months, we have accomplished a great deal. In November, we gave away more than 1,500 turkeys and fixings to individuals and families in need. In December, we started a coat drive for children’s and adult coats. We collected more than 500 of them and distributed them to local families and churches. In January, we helped collect clothes and donations for the 35th Street fire victims from local businesses and individuals. All this was done at the office at 174 Broadway. This office is usually staffed daily until 9 p.m. If anyone needs assistance, they can definitely stop by the office anytime. We will do our very best to help out anyway we can.
All of us at the Bayonne Initiative are volunteers. We will be hosting events from time to time to raise money for our initiatives for the community. On March 13, we will be hosting our very first St. Patrick’s Day Event. This event will cost $75 per person. There will be a DJ, great menu, dancing etc. At this event, we will be honoring three very special Bayonnians, who have contributed greatly to our community. We ask anyone who would like to attend to please come by the office or call us at (201) 455-8810. You may also contact me at johnsebik@gmail.com or Washington Flores at wflores068@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you and working together to help all those in need.
JOHN MILAN SEBIK