Allen Schug of the St. Vincent de Paul Society accepts a $250 check from the Judges and Police Executives Conference of Niagara County at the group's annual Christmas party. Giving Schug the check are Michael Filicetti, president of the group, as well as Tony Majka, treasurer. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)

ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com

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From left, Fillicetti, and Majka give a $250 check to Lynn Siegfried, director of St. John’s  Food Pantry.

NIAGARA FALLS — The Judges and Police Executives Conference of Niagara County held its annual Christmas celebration at the Como Restaurant. While part of the purpose of this dinner is to celebrate the holidays, the real reason the group gathers is to help worthy organizations in the community.

Due to their fundraising efforts throughout the year, they were able to help four groups in Niagara County that reach out to help those in need. All of the deserving charities received $250 in assistance from the Judges and Police to continue their much needed work.

The Niagara Gospel Rescue Mission of Niagara Falls provides shelter, meals, and spiritual assistance 365 days a year to many individuals who are in need in the community.

Elaine Jarzynka, director of operations for WNY Heroes, accepts a $250 check from  Filicetti.

The St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lewiston assists individuals and families with a variety of needs. They offer emergency shelter, assist those in need of financial help and distribute food baskets for the holidays.

WNY Heroes, Inc. is an organization founded by Army Veteran Chris Kreiger and their mission is to help veterans find services, financial assistance and resources for support.

St. John de LaSalle Community Care Food Pantry provides food for approximately 150-200 families per month and provides extra food baskets for the holidays. All of the groups had representatives attend the dinner to receive their donations.

Following the presentation of checks by the Judges and Police there was one special presentation of note. Judges and Police Board Member James Page presented his own check for $500 to the Niagara Gospel Rescue Mission, saying, “I have been watching the great work you do in the community and I wanted to help out.”

Judges and Police board member James Page speaks while Judges and Police Executives President Michael Filicetti, center, and Shawn Smith from Niagara Gospel Rescue Mission listen on.  The group received a $250 donation from Judges and Police Executives — and another $500 from Page.

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