By: Staff
The Township of Irvington is entering the height of the holiday season under the steady leadership of Mayor Tony Vauss, whose administration has launched a series of coordinated responses to federal benefit delays while expanding traditional community events designed to provide stability, care, and celebration for families.
Today, as hundreds of residents gather at IHOP on Springfield Avenue for the annual “Breakfast for Dinner” Holiday Giveback, Mayor Vauss continues a month-long sequence of community-focused programs addressing immediate needs, strengthening local partnerships, and supporting families during a period marked by both seasonal festivities and unexpected challenges.
1. IHOP “Breakfast for Dinner” Event — December 11, 2025 (Today)
A Community Tradition Offering Warm Meals and Connection
This evening from 4 PM to 7 PM, the IHOP at 1212 Springfield Avenue has closed to the public and reopened exclusively for Irvington families.
Hosted in partnership with IHOP owner Adenah Bayoh, the event provides free holiday meals including pancakes, French toast, eggs, sausage, and hot beverages.
Designed to support residents during the holiday season, the event emphasizes hospitality and inclusion. Volunteers, township employees, and community partners are participating in the effort.
“Providing families with a warm, dignified meal during the holidays is one of the most meaningful traditions we have,” Mayor Vauss said. “Moments like these strengthen our sense of togetherness and remind us what community truly means.”
2. Christmas Light Spectacular — December 4, 2025
Thousands Gather for Annual Ceremony at Civic Square
Last week, the Township hosted its annual Christmas Light Spectacular, transforming Civic Square into a large-scale winter display.
Families gathered to witness the lighting of holiday decorations, enjoy live performances, and participate in family-centered activities.
This year’s event included:
- A synchronized lighting ceremony
- Performances by the choirs of Irvington High School, Berkeley Terrace, and Florence Avenue
- A live petting zoo
- A holiday train for children
- An ice-skating rink
- Gift distribution for youth and gift cards for parents
The event drew thousands of families and underscored the township’s commitment to providing safe, accessible, and joyful experiences.
“Creating meaningful moments for our residents—especially our youth—remains a priority,” Mayor Vauss stated. “Events like this reflect the spirit and resilience of Irvington.”
3. Holiday Community Events and Outreach Efforts
Ensuring No Resident Feels Alone During the Season
Throughout December, Mayor Vauss and township agencies have expanded community-focused programs designed to support seniors, families, and vulnerable residents:
- Senior Holiday Luncheons at the Lebby C. Jones Senior Theater
- Grab & Go Lunch Giveawaysfor families
- Home deliveries of turkeys, chickens, and food bags to seniors and homebound residents
- Winter Wonder Lights nightly drive-through display at 1 Civic Square
These initiatives were structured to improve access, reduce barriers, and ensure residents remain connected to township services.
“Our goal is to meet residents where they are—whether in community centers, senior residences, or right at their doorsteps,” Mayor Vauss said.
4. SNAP Crisis: Emergency Response and Rapid Action
Mayor Vauss Coordinates Support as Federal Benefit Delays Affect Families
In mid-November, delays in federal SNAP payments created uncertainty for households across New Jersey. Recognizing the urgent need for local support, Mayor Vauss launched a coordinated emergency response.
On November 13, in collaboration with Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo, RWJBarnabas Health, and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, the Township hosted a large-scale food distribution at the D. Bilal Beasley Community Center in Irvington Park.
Hundreds of families received food boxes containing produce, pantry staples, and essential items. Volunteers assisted with loading vehicles and providing wellness information.
“In times of crisis, it is critical that communities respond quickly and compassionately,” Mayor Vauss said at the site. “Irvington stands together, and no resident will be left behind.”
5. Irvington Community Food Response Coalition
A New, Permanent Network of Mutual Aid and Support
To provide long-term structure to emergency food assistance and ensure continuity of services beyond the immediate crisis, Mayor Vauss established the Irvington Community Food Response Coalition.
The coalition includes:
- Township departments
- Irvington Public Schools
- Local churches, mosques, and synagogues
- Nonprofit organizations
- Healthcare providers
- Local businesses
- Resident volunteers and block leaders
The coalition coordinates:
- Meal deliveries
- Emergency food distributions
- SNAP application support
- Transportation services for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges
- Outreach to households at risk of food insecurity
“This collaborative model ensures that residents receive consistent, reliable support,” Mayor Vauss said. “It reflects our township’s commitment to compassion and collective responsibility.”
6. Safe Halloween Expansion — October 31, 2025
Record Attendance and Enhanced Safety Measures
Earlier this fall, the Township hosted its largest-ever Safe Halloween Celebration, drawing nearly 3,000 children and families to Town Hall.
The event included:
- Supervised trick-or-treating
- A live petting zoo
- Music and entertainment
- Participation from Police, Fire, and Public Works employees
- Resource tables from township departments
The program provides families with a secure alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating in dense residential areas.
“Our focus is both safety and community-building,” Police Director Tracy Bowers said.
“Events like this help create positive, lasting relationships with residents.”
COMMUNITY IMPACT AND PUBLIC RECEPTION
Irvington residents have consistently expressed strong support for the Township’s holiday initiatives and crisis response efforts. Feedback highlights the Mayor’s visible presence, responsiveness to community needs, and emphasis on collaborative leadership.
“Mayor Vauss leads by example,” said Pastor Jerry Smith, a longtime community partner. “He shows up, he listens, and he empowers others to serve alongside him.”
CALL TO ACTION
Residents and organizations wishing to support holiday programs, volunteer for community initiatives, or access assistance are encouraged to visit:
Baffour Asare, MPH, REHS, LI/RA
DIRECTOR OF HEALTH AND SENIOR SERVICES
Municipal Building Room 109
1 Civic Square Irvington, New Jersey 07111
Main: 973-399-6647
Email: basare@irvingtonnj.gov
Irvington Neighborhood Improvement Corp
Josie Monel, Director
346 16th Avenue, Irvington, NJ 07111
Main: 973-416-0916
Email: jmonel@irvingtonnj.gov