Glen Cove, New York – Assemblymember Charles Lavine (D-North Shore) is wrapping up his 2024 Toy Drive by expressing his appreciation to the community for its support. After weeks of collecting toys at Lavine’s district office and other sites, the drive culminated in the distribution of hundreds of toys for children in need in both Glen Cove and Westbury.

Lavine took part in the Glen Cove Equal Opportunity Council toy giveaway which was held in collaboration with Glen Cove Gardens Development. Lavine was among several sponsors of this event in which kids walked away with the toy of their choice and a huge smile on their face. A special moment occurred when Lavine joined EOC Director Irma Jeanty to present bicycles donated by a constituent to little Jason and Yareli, winners of the cookie and gingerbread house decorating contest. The bikes were beautifully refurbished retro bicycles made to look as good as new.

Lavine also welcomed Bishop Lionel Harvey of the First Baptist Cathedral of Westbury to his office to donate toys the church will distribute to families in need during Christmas Eve mass celebrations.

Lavine said: “Thank you to everyone in and around the 13th Assembly District for your generosity in making this year’s drive such a tremendous success. Families are still struggling in the aftermath of COVID and with the rise in cost of living making it even more crucial that we do everything we can to help those in need. I cannot express in words the happiness I feel when I see the joy on children's faces at these events. It’s something I look forward to every year. In addition to every single person who made a contribution, no matter how big or small, I also want to thank the Bryant Library in Roslyn, Glen Cove Public Library, Oyster Bay-East Norwich Library in Oyster Bay, and Sea Cliff Library for serving as additional collection sites. I also want to wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season.”