East Side High School Holds Charity Champions Fundraiser

Optimum Community hosted a Charity Champions Check Presentation to East Side High School during the Peer Leadership Program’s “Family Dinner Night”. All proceeds from the fundraiser went to the soup kitchen at St. John’s Church in Newark. The Peer Leadership students have chosen to raise money for the soup kitchen for the second year in a row, as they realize this local charity relies heavily on the assistance of volunteers and donations to help members of their own community. Over 200 students and parents attended the dinner, where the charity was presented with a $1,000 donation. Two representatives from St. John’s Soup Kitchen, Richard Leech and Nicholas Calcado, were present to accept the donation. They spoke about the mission of St. John’s Soup Kitchen and thanked the students and Optimum Community for their generosity. Senator Teresa Ruiz, Assemblywoman Eliana Pinto Marin and Assemblywoman Grace Spencer were all also in attendance and recognized the students for their service.

“I would like to thank all of the students involved in the Charity Champions program,” said Senator Ruiz. “Because of their commitment, St. John’s Food Kitchen is making a difference in the lives of so many individuals in need in Newark. They provide hundreds of meals a day to individuals of all ages and from all walks of life who fell upon hard times. I also commend Optimum Community for this program that helps young people realize the importance of helping others.”

Assemblywoman Pintor Marin noted, “I am so impressed with the young people here today and want to let you know that we appreciate your enthusiasm and dedication. Each of you is a wonderful role model. And thank you Optimum Community for bringing this program to our students in Newark.”

“Hunger is a daily battle for so many children and families in our very own community. We are grateful for the ongoing efforts of our young people to help raise funds for a deserving charity like St. John’s Soup Kitchen that provides nutritious food for those in need,” said Assemblywoman Spencer. “I would like to thank Optimum Community for a program that engages students in such a positive way.”