The 13th annual Holiday Express Clambake, held virtually on Sept. 13, raised $135,000 for the nonprofit organization that delivers music, food, gifts, financial support and friendship to those with the greatest need for the gift of human kindness during the holiday season and throughout the year.
According to a press release, this year’s event featured several Holiday Express memories, including a special performance from the Meadowlands Arena with Bruce Springsteen and Joe Piscopo, the Rockefeller Center tree lighting, and other memorable performances throughout the years.
The virtual evening also featured recorded performances from Holiday Express volunteers, including Tim McLoone, Layonne Holmes, Carl Gentry, Pat Guadagno, Jim Celestino, Sheldon Edmond, Amy Broza, Nicole Cocco and Gary Sfraga.
A heartfelt tribute to BethAnne Clayton, a long-time Holiday Express volunteer who passed away from cancer earlier in the year, ended the evening, according to the press release.
The organization’s directors said the event was a success because of the many individuals who purchased tickets and the evening’s sponsors, including presenting sponsors Phil and Marilyn Perricone, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and McLoone’s Restaurants.
Hundreds of items donated by local families and businesses for a silent auction also contributed to the success of the clambake.
During the 2020 season, Holiday Express will provide a virtual party for 100 locations. Holiday Express “visits” the mentally and physically challenged, the isolated, individuals in addiction and recovery programs, the poor and the homeless, and children with serious illnesses, according to the press release.
Proceeds from the clambake will be used to improve the quality of life for 27,000 individuals who have come to depend on Holiday Express.
While these individuals will experience Holiday Express in a different manner, the organization’s directors said they are fully committed to providing holiday fun for all, including great holiday music and the dance party atmosphere that are unique to Holiday Express.
For more information about the 2020 Holiday Express season, visit holidayexpress.org or call 732-544-8010.