WMBCTV: Holiday season made brighter for those in need with National Guard food drive

In Essex County, a Christmas food drive took shape to provide residents with the ingredients to cook up some holiday favorites. The drive was made possible as sponsors and volunteers including members from the National Guard stepped up to bring the community together. 

In the heart of Essex County, the holiday season was made brighter for those in need, helping to ensure they have the ingredients to celebrate the season with their loved ones.

“There’s 40 different things for meals and stuff that people can make and also we’re giving them the turkey,” said Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo. “It’s something nice to do to keep them going for the holidays.”

While the drive started during the COVID pandemic, this holiday food distribution marks the 111th distribution of the program as officials say they see the continued need from the community.

“There’s a lot of people out there still hurting and we have to make sure we’re there and we’re supporting them each and every way,” DiVincenzo said.

National Guard Staff Sergeant Miguel Valoy added, “it means that there are people out there that care for them. People out there that are willing to help and make a difference and it kind of gives them home and positivity.”

This distribution saw some different sponsors and volunteers that came together to make the drive possible. 

“First of all, we have RWJBarnabas Health who’s one of our sponsors today,” said DiVincenzo. ”Today, we have the National Guard out here helping us with their men and women of service. 

Miguel Valoy, who’s been serving in the military for nine years, explains what this means for the members of the National Guard.

“It means a lot. It’s a great deal to us,” Valoy said. “The National Guard is big on community service and giving back to where we live in any way, shape or form.”

As members of the National Guard are continuing their service to the community, Essex County officials are expressing their gratitude.

“We enjoy it. We’re very appreciative of what's happening here,” DiVincenzo said. “It brings the community together.”

For more information on future food distributions, you can visit essexcountynj.org.