District Leaders Julio Peña III and Jacqui Painter, alongside Red Hook community leader Tiffiney Davis, brought holiday cheer to Sunset Park and Red Hook this month through a community toy drive that collected more than 100 toys for families in need.
The drive, held at San Pedro Inn in Red Hook and L’Wren Bar in Sunset Park, marked the third consecutive year the organizers have partnered with local businesses and residents to support a domestic violence shelter in Sunset Park. All toys donated during the event will be delivered directly to the shelter, where they will be distributed to children during the holiday season.
Organizers said the response from the community exceeded expectations, with residents, local business owners, and bar patrons stepping up to donate toys and spread the word.
“We are thrilled with the incredible outpouring of support from our neighbors. The genuine generosity displayed by everyone involved has made a significant impact, and we are proud to contribute to bringing joy to children in difficult times,” Peña said in a statement.
Painter emphasized the collective effort behind the drive, noting that the event reflected the strength of neighborhood connections across Sunset Park and Red Hook.
“The success of this Toy Drive reinforces the strength and compassion within our community. It’s heartwarming to see so many people come together to make a positive difference in the lives of those who need it most, especially during the holiday season,” she said.
For Davis, a lifelong resident of Red Hook and a longtime community advocate, the drive was a poignant reminder of the importance of mutual support during the holiday season.
“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the holidays than giving back to those most in need. Everyone deserves joy this holiday season,” she said.
Peña and Painter, district leaders in Assembly District 51, have hosted a range of community-focused events since their election in 2020 and 2022, including voter registration drives, baby showers, and previous toy drives. They are the “first openly queer district leaders in Brooklyn.” Davis is the founder and executive director of The Red Hook Art Project, a youth arts organization serving local children and teens.
