Donate pajamas this holiday season

Town clerk Kevin LaValle and EJ’s PJs founder Patricia Poggi originally partnered five years ago to collect and distribute new pajamas to children of all ages who need them the most in his former council district.

Then, when he was elected to town clerk, in 2023, the initiative was made townwide. According to LaValle, the town collected and distributed over 3,000 pajamas in coordination with the town’s Interface Toy Drive last year. 

“Supporting the EJ’s PJs Pajama Drive is an incredible way to bring comfort and warmth to those in need. By participating, we help ensure thousands of children and families receive cozy pajamas and the reminder that their community cares,” he said. “Together, we can make a big difference, one pair of pajamas at a time!” 

EJ’s PJs Pajama Drive started with one mission in mind: to give out pajamas, and that mission has not changed since 2011 when Patricia Poggi and her sons started the drive. The name EJ’s PJs was inspired by Patricia Poggi’s three sons, Edward, Jeremy, and Patrick, who are the backbone and driving force behind this annual fundraiser. EJ’s PJs began as a way to give back to the community and to take time out from the holiday season to reflect upon what matters most in this life, which is helping others.

This year’s event will be held on Dec. 12 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Connect Church, 31 Horseblock Road, in Centereach. For more information about EJ’s PJs and donation drop-off locations, go to www.ejspjs.org or call town clerk Kevin LaValle’s office at 631-451-6920.

Pajamas can also be donated during the town’s annual toy drive. On Friday, Dec. 13, all the JVC Broadcasting Radio Stations will broadcast from the Brookhaven Town Hall lobby from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to promote the Town’s InterfaceToy Drive.

The Town of Brookhaven-JVC Broadcasting Toy Drive is open to the public and those who stop by are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy appropriate for children ranging from infant to 15 years of age.  All donated toys will be given to families in need during this holiday season.