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 The Community Services Committee of Local Union #3, White Plains held its annual "Toys for Tots" toy drive. This year, our membership's generosity was unparalleled and as a result, thousands of toys were brought to the union hall to be donated. Three community organizations were chosen this year to be recipients of our toy drive.
The first organization, The Carver Center, located in Port Chester, NY is a vital community asset whose programs make a real impact on the lives of needy people. Through their After School Program, Teen Outreach Program and Summer Camp Program, the Carver Center has given over 60 years of service, support and resources for families and children in need.
 The second place we delivered toys to was the Yonkers Children's Place in Yonkers, NY, which is a Head Start Program serving 130 low -income families. The ages of the children range from 2.9 years old to 5 years old. This program's philosophy is that young children learn through play, which requires active thinking, exploration and experimentation. This environment fosters learning possibilities for all children.
 We also delivered toys to St. Luke's LifeWorks in Stamford, Ct. St. Luke's helps individuals and families who are affected by homelessness, HIV / AIDS, and mental illness. The Children's Community at St. Luke's provides a safe and nurturing environment to over 1,000 young children age 4-16 years who have been the victims of homelessness.
 Community Service Committee Chaimlan John Marfia and Committee members John Ripari, Tom Stiller, Paul Raneri, Henry Lang, Anthony Arena, Kurt DeHoff and Vinny DiTomasso were the lucky members that delivered the toys and were able to meet the children and see their joyous expressions.
 We would like to express our most heartfelt thanks to every member who took the time to go out and buy a present for one of these children. Every time you dropped off a toy at the union hall for our drive, you helped spread a little joy throughout our community. Thank you again for all your continuing generosity, we couldn't do it without you.
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