Five Towns groups serve as ancillary Santa Clauses

Cedarhurst-based Rock and Wrap It Up! partnered with the Hewlett-Woodmere School District, Independent Coach, individual donors , the Kiwanis Club of the Five Towns, Lawrence-Cedarhurst American Legion Post 339, local scout troops, the New York Giants and Yankees, Publishers Clearing House, State Farm of Valley Stream, Suburbia Prime Meats and Under 5’ 10  of Cedarhurst to bring more than 4,000 gifts, including 200 books to more than 800 people on Christmas Eve.

The Woodmere firehouse once again served as the staging area for wrapping and setup, and gifts were distributed at the Five Towns Community Center in Lawrence, where volunteers served as holiday elves. St John Baptist Church in Far, Rockaway, where Rock and Wrap It Up! typically holds its Thanksgiving meal received 350 gifts for their neighbors and congregants.

“We are grateful that we were able to coordinate this event again, our 29th year and largest yet,” Rock and Wrap It Up! CEO and founder Syd Mandelbaum stated in an email to board directors. “It could not be done without the hundreds of volunteers and board members who gave of their time, money and support.” Rock and Wrap It Up! is a nonprofit that seeks to fight poverty and hunger across the country by donating food and other items to those in need.