Skip to main content

Elizabeth Firefighters Thank Community Organization with Turkey, Ham Donations

Elizabeth

The Elizabeth Firemen’s Mutual Benevolent Association of New Jersey, Branch No. 9, Inc. (FMBA Local 9), partnered with local community organizations this Thanksgiving holiday to help feed those less fortunate in the City of Elizabeth with turkeys and hams. “It is not about Elizabeth firefighters being able to help hundreds of Elizabeth residents on this single holiday, but the fact that these organizations help thousands of Elizabeth families throughout the year,” said David Bialas, Local 9 Vice President.

This year the association donated turkeys and hams to Missionaries on a Mission and St. Joseph Social Service Center. Missionaries on a Mission are based out of the New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church on E. Jersey St. and are headed by President Missionary Cerise Simmons. This year their goal was to distribute over 200 Thanksgiving food baskets.

The St. Joseph Social Service Center is located on Division St. and is under the direction of the renowned Sister Jacinta Fernandes, OSB. “Sister Jacinta is a staple of the Elizabeth community and has helped countless residents during her years of service,” said President Michael Guarino Jr. He continued, “Her soft voice yet charismatic activism accompanied by her selflessness is an inspiration to all of our members as we carry out our civic mission.”

In addition to making contributions of food, Local 9 cooked and donated turkeys to the Salvation Army Elizabeth Temple’s turkey meals. President Guarino stated, “This has become a yearly tradition for our organization and our members always enjoy meeting the staff who graciously donate their time preparing for an event that helps so many citizens.” FMBA Local 9 will also be donating turkey dinners to the St. Patrick’s Church soup kitchen on Thanksgiving Day.

“The City of Elizabeth is lucky to have these organizations in our community and as Thanksgiving starts the holiday season we ask that you remember them and their missions come Christmas and the New Year,” urged Vice President Bialas.

1,000