Over 400 Toys Donated to Underprivileged Kids from Mineola Union

Members of Mineola-based UFCW Local 342, a labor organization that emphasizes service and enriching the local communities where its members work, recently delivered over 400 toys to Calvary Chapel Island of Grace in Holbrook, so that underprivileged children could have an opportunity to enjoy the Christmas holiday.

The labor organization, which has a main office located in Mineola, represents nearly 10,000 workers in the retail food, wholesale food processing, distribution and manufacturing industries and includes workers from A&P, Pathmark, Waldbaum’s, Food Emporium, Stop & Shop and .  

Each year members of Local 342 members provide these children some happiness to distract them from the occasional gloominess they feel as a result of the dire situations they often face. Many volunteers are required to guide these children through difficult times by providing them with enjoyment luxuries their families cannot afford.

Local 342 members began the toy giving tradition several decades ago. This year, members will return to the chapel on Friday evening and helping personnel distribute toys to the children.     

“Each year that passes, our members seem to donate more and more toys to this cause,” Local 342 Safety,Education, Cultural, and Activities Director Kelly Egan said.. “Even in a struggling economy, this membership continues to rise to the occasion concerning charitable causes. It is an amazing display of selflessness.”