On Saturday afternoon, December 10, The Center on State Street was the scene of a festive Christmas party for migrant farmworker families from western New York. About 200 people enjoyed a buffet feast. Children were entertained with a hula hoop contest and smashing three piñatas, all to the music of a DJ with a sound system and lights. One hundred and twenty children received gifts from Santa Clause.
The Western New York Coalition of Farmworker-Serving Agencies hosted the event with support by the Brockport Ecumenical Outreach Committee (BEOC). Organizing the event were Irene Sanchez, president of the Coalition, Bill Plews, vice president of the Coalition and chairman of BEOC, and Ann Jasmin, on the staff of Oak Orchard Center. Doris Valentin of the Buffalo Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church transported families from western townships. Several students from The College at Brockport helped set up the event.
The children also enjoyed large craft tables sponsored by the Genesee Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse. The Brockport Lions Club tested children’s vision and found several needing an eye doctor. Fidelis Care representatives were present with health insurance information.
Bill Plews saw the party as a success. “The event is all about providing a good time for the kids and giving them some nice gifts,” he said. “They enjoyed it and appreciated the gifts they received.”
