Thanks to another “Livingston Connection,” Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI) was able to provide cases of bottled water to a number of its distribution partners.
“We received another Facebook message from Livingston resident Lori Racioppi Simonovich,” recounted LPI founder and CEO Jeff Friedman. “It’s always good news when I hear from Lori. As operations director at AAA Communications in Pine Brook, Lori is a multiple and long-time LPI donor with access to product in volume.”
Previously, AAA had donated cases of rain ponchos, cookies, towels and water to LPI. “This time it was five pallets of water, some 6,000 large-sized bottles coming in at about $12,000 in value,” said Friedman. “Bottled water is a major need in the homeless and extremely poor communities, LPI’s valued constituencies. This represents a major contribution to LPI.”
After responding to Simonovich “in awe,” Friedman noted, “I immediately contacted LPI’s long-time distribution partners and friends Amina Bey, executive director at Newark Emergency Services for Families (NESF) and Brenda Scott, executive director at the Bessie Green Community (BGC) with the wonderful news.”
Scott commented, “This is great, because it allows me to reallocate funding for the purchase of other items so badly needed by our Newark constituencies.”
Bey noted, “The one thing that we use, need, and distribute every day is water. The price of bottled water has doubled recently. Receiving this incredibly generous donation from Jeff Friedman and Livingston Philanthropies is a tremendous blessing for our organization. We are most grateful. Thank you!”
Hearing these responses, Simonovich said, “I’m happy to get these to you and hoping for more. I will keep you updated.”
In conclusion, Friedman said, “Frankly, the communities we service need literally everything. Perhaps additional Tribune readers have access to unneeded product in small or large volume? It’s appreciated. Please send me an email at [email protected], or contact LPI through our website at njhomeless.org. Contributions are tax-deductible.”
Photo: Rick Levin, LPI founding volunteer, LHS class of 1970 alumnus, and lifelong friend of founder Jeff Friedman, assists AAA Communications events production staff member Bobby Pierre move one of five pallets of donated water at Newark’s Bessie Green Community’s food pantry and clothing barn.
