STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Councilman Frank Morano is bringing back a beloved Staten Island tradition this holiday season with the Judge Robert Gigante Memorial Teddy Bear Drive, collecting new teddy bears for children in need across the borough.
The drive accepts donations from Nov. 12 through Dec. 10 at Morano’s district office at 2955 Veterans Road West, Suite 2. Judge Gigante ran the annual collection for many years to provide comfort to children facing cancer and other serious challenges.
“He began it because, as a sitting judge, he couldn’t engage in traditional fundraising so he found a way to help that was purely about compassion,” Morano said. “The drive grew into something that involved everyone from court officers and clerks to attorneys and families across the borough.”
At its peak, the drive collected over 1,000 teddy bears each year for recipients, including the Nalitt Pediatric Cancer Center at Staten Island University Hospital, the Ronald McDonald House, the Bini Foundation, and local preschools and community organizations.
“Every child deserves to feel loved and cared for, especially during the holiday season,” Morano said. “A simple teddy bear can bring warmth and comfort to a child who may be going through a difficult time.”
The initiative invites residents, schools, businesses, and community organizations to contribute. Collected bears will be distributed to local families and children through community partners and charitable organizations.
Donations can be delivered Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. For questions or to coordinate large group donations, contact the office at 718-984-5151.
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