Council Member Rafael Salamanca Jr. hosted a free coat distribution at his District Office, 1070 Southern Blvd., on Saturday, Dec. 14, to help Bronx children prepare for the chilly winter season.
This year marked the seventh time Salamanca hosted the event for residents of New York City Council District 17. Around 500 Bronx youths, from toddlers to teenagers, attended and received free coats, hats, and gloves to stay warm during the winter. The event also included refreshments and a surprise appearance by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.
“As we approach the colder months, it’s important that we give back to our communities and ensure that our kids are equipped with the necessary protective gear to stay warm and healthy,” Salamanca said. “With so many families in my District being hit hard by our city’s ever-growing cost-of-living crisis, helping parents has been a key priority for me during my time in office. I am grateful to my co-sponsors for once again joining me to help Bronx families most in need. As we approach the holiday season, I hope others will be inspired in their own ways to give back.”
Co-sponsors for this year’s event included Urban Health Plan, the Southern Boulevard Business Improvement District (BID), JD Sports, Ponce Bank, District Leader Freddy Perez Jr., Spring Bank, Bronx Community Board 2 and the 41st Precinct Community Council.
