The Alternative Press

LIVINGSTON, NJ - Kiwanis Club of Livingston hosted a tricky tray for the West Essex YMCA’s Strong Kids Program Thursday night at Hanover Manor.

School Age Childcare Assistant Director, Eva Collazo, said that the purpose of the event and the ultimate goal of the Strong Kids Program is to raise money in order to put children through YMCA programs such as aftercare and summer camp by providing financial assistance.

“It’s really important in today’s day and age to give back if you can,” Collazo said. “There are a lot of people who need help and a safe place to put their kids after school.”

Collazo added that the event was sold out and all admission and ticket sale profits went to the cause.

Aside from the 200 baskets that were all donated and up for grabs, the grand prizes consisted of a one year full family membership to the West Essex YMCA, Zoom Teeth Whitening, donated by Livingston Dental Associates, LLC, an Apple iPad, donated by Regal Bank, and a certificate for a two hour estate planning legal consultation, donated by Deputy Mayor, Rudy Fernandez.

Youth and Teen Director for the YMCA, John Kane, said that he decided to attend and support the event because the Strong Kids Program “gives children the opportunity to participate in programs that normally would not have financially been able to do so.”

“I think this fundraiser is great because the money goes towards helping children have brighter futures,” Kane said.

Although Kane was happy to be at the tricky tray, there wasn’t anything in specific he was crossing his fingers to win.

“I’m looking forward to having a good night for a good cause,” Kane said.