By: Richard L. Smith
In response to the winter chill, the Greater Newark community is set to gather for the United Community Corporation's (UCC) "Cookies, Coats and Cocoa" event.
Scheduled for Wednesday, January 24, at the West Side Park Community Center, this event promises a reprieve from the cold with delicious cookies, hot cocoa, and essential winter resources, including free coats, groceries, and pet food.
Jersey Cares is contributing winter coats, while Entenmann's and the City of Newark West Ward, The Honorable Councilman Dupré Kelly, provide the cookies and cocoa.
Attendees can also expect blankets and socks from the Peoples Investment Foundation, and even their furry companions aren't forgotten with pet food available.
Moreover, ensuring health during these trying times, Saint James Health will administer flu and coronavirus vaccinations on-site.
UCC Executive Director Craig Mainor highlights the event's dual purpose - offering delightful treats and aiding families with necessary winter gear, thus easing the financial burdens associated with this season.
The event, running from 3 to 5 p.m., goes beyond just providing winter essentials.
It serves as a platform for the community to access various outreach resources and services, with local agencies actively participating.
Made possible by UCC's partner Wellpoint and supporters like Newark Centers of Hope and Essex County, the event also underscores the community spirit, showcasing the dedication of UCC's YouthBuild students who constructed the cocoa distribution stand.
This program intertwines education, vocational training, and community service, embodying a holistic approach to youth empowerment.
As temperatures drop, "Cookies, Coats and Cocoa" stands as a beacon of warmth and community solidarity, offering not just physical warmth but also the warmth of community care and support.