Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that the employees of the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office donated 800 toys and games to benefit 10 local agencies that serve needy families, including several that specialize in meeting the needs of families who are victims or survivors of violent crimes.
“Every day we have sad reminders of how violence can forever change the lives of children. In our office, very often we have the grim responsibility of trying to console child victims or children who have seen their love ones injured and even murdered. We attempt to address the needs of these victims and survivors through our Victim Witness Advocacy Unit but once a year we organize this toy drive,’’ said Prosecutor Murray. “We hope it can bring a measure of joy to children who have suffered a loss or are simply in need.’’
Organized by Pamela McCauley, the Victim/Witness Coordinator, the toy drive is one of a number outreach activities sponsored by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.
“For 20 years, employees in this office have organized a toy drive to give back to the community we serve, ’’ said Executive Assistant Prosecutor Andrea McCoy Johnson. “Every year we can count on our staff to jump in and do whatever is needed. They donate toys, games, and cash. In addition, the employees in the Victim Witness Unit organize the toy drive and deliver the toys to the agencies that will receive them,’’ Executive Assistant Prosecutor Johnson said.
This year the following organizations will receive donations:
The Salvation Army of Greater Essex County; the New Community Family Resource and Success Center Program; the Renaissance Community Development Corporation Center; Clinton Hill Community Resource Center; Echoes Grief Center; East Orange/Orange Community Development Corporation; La Casa de Don Pedro; The Elect Apostolic Church of Newark; and the Essex County Family Justice Center.
