PEF Fulfills Wish List for Special Children and Parolee Families

ALBANY, NY (12/07/2013)(readMedia)-- Leaders and members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) and their families kept a tradition alive for 23 years today by wrapping toys and preparing gift and food baskets for families and children in need. The union members and other volunteers met at PEF headquarters in Latham.

The toys and food baskets will be given to families of parolees who are making an effort to change their lives by working. Many do not earn enough to provide even the most basic gifts for their children. Toys will also be given to the St. Margaret's Children Center in Albany, and some to the Toys for Tots program.

"No matter what the economic climate is, our toy drive is a tradition that grows every year," said PEF President Susan M. Kent. "It is a positive way to be a part of the community during the holiday season. Our members have always been generous with their time and money when it comes to helping those less fortunate."

PEF Region 8 members in the Albany area donated the toys in lieu of an admission fee at the annual holiday party, according to PEF Region 8 Coordinator Nikki Brate.

"We found out what the special needs children at St. Margaret's wished for, and we tried to fulfill those wishes this year," Brate said. "Our members' generosity will bring some happiness and smiles to these children. This program exemplifies the joy of giving and hopefully will make a positive difference in their lives."

Susan Jeffords, a parole revocation specialist 1 who organizes the wrapping event, said the baskets and gifts to parolee families make a difference in the community.

"When a parolee who is in the process of transitioning back into society receives a food basket for staying on the right track, it means a great deal," Jeffords said. "It not only shows we acknowledge his good efforts, but the community benefits as well with having another productive member of society, rather than someone invested in crime."

Parole officers will deliver the baskets during home visits to area parolees, who are employed but struggling financially.

PEF is the state's largest professional employee union representing 54,000 professional, scientific and technical employees, with approximately 18,100 working in the greater Capital Region. For more information, contact Jane Briggs at jbriggs@pef.org.