On Saturday, Jan. 30, Sen. Shelley Mayer and her Youth Advisory Council braved frigid temperatures to host a Coat & Toiletries Drive in commemoration of the MLK Day of Service.

The collection took place at the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester.  Donors were encouraged to bring new or gently used coats, socks, gloves, cloth face masks, soap, toothpaste, and toothbrushes.

Donations will benefit people in need working with the Westchester Labor Alliance, WLA.  The WLA is a coalition of five community-based worker centers throughout Westchester defending workers and helping workers fight wage theft.  Special thank you to Maria Imperial, CEO of the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester for her support of the initiative.

“I am so grateful for the dozens of community members who donated so generously,” Mayer said.  “During this time of great need, it’s heartwarming to see the community rally to help others who are struggling.  My Youth Advisory Council members, managed by my staff Perla Arellano, took the lead on this initiative, and I am so impressed by their work, deep empathy, and their desire to contribute.

Thank you also to my dear friend Maria Imperial for allowing us to host the Coat & Toiletries Drive at the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester and for her generous contributions.”

The Youth Advisory Council, YAC, members who participated in the Coat Drive were: Allegra Acevedo (Hunter College), Erik Hernandez Torres (Norwalk Community College), Viana Soto (Port Chester Middle School), Sophia Sabelja (Eastchester High School), Alex Sabelja (Eastchester High School), Isabel Tiburcio (Rye Country Day School), Brian Hernandez (Port Chester High School) and Fredy Iasenza
(Harrison High School).

Mayer’s YAC is composed of high school and college-aged young adults interested in civic engagement and serving the community.
Those interested in joining the YAC should email Perla Arellano at arellano@nysenate.gov or call 934-5250. (Submitted)