NJAJ members once again stepped up to help others through the association’s various philanthropic drives.

The 19^th Annual NJAJ Turkey Drive raised more than $18,000 to benefit food banks throughout New Jersey.

“I am very pleased that we are able to help so many people in our state,” said NJAJ President Patricia M. Giordano, Esq. “The generosity of our members is simply inspiring.”

The annual Turkey Drive benefits the Center for Food Action, the Interfaith Food Pantry and the Interfaith Food Pantry of the Oranges in the North Region of the state.

In the Central Region, the recipient is Mercer Street Friends in Trenton.

In the South Region, donations are made to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey and the Food Bank of South Jersey.

The Turkey Drive is one of NJAJ charitable efforts.

The annual coat drive at the Meadowlands Seminar  conducted by the Minority Trial Lawyers Caucus brought in 48 coats that were donated to Jersey Cares for distribution.

Additionally, the Women Trial Lawyers Caucus successfully coordinated the annual NJAJ Holiday Project. Nine large cartons of toys along with monetary donations and gift cards were donated by NJAJ members and sent to Youth Consultation Service (YCS) for the children they support.

“It is important for us to help people who do not have many of the benefits that we have,” Giordano said. “At the heart of what all of us do as trial lawyers, is helping others when they need help. The success of our charitable drives shows that commitment.”