Sheriff Armando Fontoura and officers from his department this morning prepare to load thousands of gifts, educational and computers games, sports equipment and other holiday items onto a fleet of SUV's and pick-up trucks at Veterans Courthouse for their 31st Annual Holiday Toy Drive for Needy Children.
During the day, more than 40 local schools, religious institutions, civic clubs and family shelters were visited by members of the Essex County Sheriff's Office.
In addition to holiday goodies, Fontoura and his officers also delivered a wide variety of winter coats, boots, hats, scarves, gloves and personal hygiene products.
The first stop for the sheriff's caravan was Newark's 14th Avenue School for Special Needs children.
"We are proud to assist Santa every year," Sheriff Fontoura noted.
"Our assistance is particularly important this year as we all struggle with the Covid pandemic and the impact it has had on the financial resources of many of our neighbors."