Victor Cruz, New York Giants Pro Bowl wide receiver and Paterson, New Jersey native, made a guest appearance on Monday, December 12 at Summit Medical Group Foundation’s (SMGF) second annual Holiday Toy Drive. To spread the spirit and joy of the holiday season, Cruz addressed the importance of giving back to the community and collected donated toys for families in need.
The event was held in conjunction with the Victor Cruz Foundation and the Boys & Girls Club of Paterson and Passaic. Over 600 toys were donated by Summit Medical Group (SMG) employees and their families (with a projected increase in donations expected during the one week remaining in the collection efforts).
Children, parents, football fans and SMG employees stood patiently in line to present their gifts of new, unwrapped toys and to get their photos taken with Victor Cruz. They were joined by executives of SMG and SMGF as well as all other participating organizations.
Victor Cruz addressed his remarks to those in attendance, many of whom were wearing his #80 jersey. “It’s an extreme honor to be here, and especially after a tremendous Giants’ win on Sunday. It’s important to give back to the community’s children and families so they may be able to enjoy Christmas. I appreciate all of you for coming and for your donations, and go Giants!”
Joe Finocchiaro, Executive Director, SMGF, echoed Cruz’s enthusiasm. “We are proud to spearhead the annual Holiday Toy Drive, and to work with Victor Cruz, the Victor Cruz Foundation and the Boys & Girls Club of Paterson and Passaic. It is very gratifying to see the enormous response and generosity of Summit Medical Group employees and their families. We know from our ongoing work at Summit Medical Group Foundation how efforts like the Holiday Toy Drive can make a difference in the lives of needy members in our community.”
The annual Holiday Toy Drive is one of several such initiatives held by SMGF, including their annual Coat Drive and Children’s Backpack Drive. The Foundation’s main fundraising events are the annual Spring Gala & Auction and the Fall Golf Invitational.
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