'Operation Santa' Hits Union County, Gifts Meals And Toys To Families In Need

UNION, NJ — More than 200 Union County children and their families were treated to a holiday party and gifts this season at Kean University.

On Dec. 17, the Lesniak Institute held its 24th Annual Operation Santa program that included warm meals, games, activities, and visits from Santa and his elves.

The Lesniak organization is a nonprofit that assists hundreds of children and families each year. The team advocates for those less fortunate who are recommended through Union County Social Services, the Coalition for the Homeless in Elizabeth, and other community organizations.

"Operation Santa is more than a toy drive," said Felipe Peralta, the Executive Director at the Lesniak Institute, "It is a guarantee to the participating families that they are not alone during the holiday season."

In this year's installment, the event also hosted a Volunteer Wrapping Day on Dec. 8, where local students joined other supporters to package more than 200 gifts for the Operation Santa children.

This was followed by a community advancement information course on Dec. 11 that gave attendees a way to build on their lives beyond just the holiday season and heading into the new year.

Financial literacy, housing, career growth, and personal well-being habits were all discussed by leadership representatives from multiple genres.

All of the programs were held at Kean University, the headquarters for the organization.

More information on the Lesniak Institute for American Leadership and how to get involved can be found on the organization's website.

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