NEWARK, N.J. – More than 300 Greater Newark community members received a warm coat, baked treats and essential items to help ease the burden of the cold winter months at a recent “Cookies, Coats and Cocoa” resource distribution hosted by the nonprofit United Community Corporation.

The event, which was held Jan. 22 at the West Side Park Community Center in Newark, marked another successful effort to support the community during the challenging weather this time of year. UCC, along with community partners and supporters, helped serve 338 individuals, providing them with winter essentials, resources, and an afternoon of connection and warmth.

Attendees received free winter coats donated by Franciscan Charities, Jersey Cares, United by Blue and other community supporters, cookies and hot cocoa provided by Newark West Ward Councilman Dupré Kelly and local nonprofits, and blankets and toys contributed by JP Morgan Chase, Community Banking. Groceries were also distributed through UCC’s Champion House Food Pantry, ensuring that local families had access to fresh produce and goods in one of the state’s most food insecure areas.

“This event is proof of what we can accomplish when we come together as a community,” said UCC Executive Director Craig Mainor. “By serving our neighbors, we aim to make a tangible difference in helping families brace for the harsh winter. Ensuring that everyone has what they need to stay warm, fed and cared for is at the heart of what we do at UCC.”

Winter can be a challenging season for Greater Newark residents, where many community members face economic hardships. This includes rising costs of living, coupled with the financial burden of purchasing winter clothing and supplies. For some, a warm coat or a week’s worth of groceries can be the difference between safety and hardship.

By hosting resource distribution events like this, UCC’s staff and volunteers work to reduce these barriers while providing a sense of community care and support. The organization also strives to break the stigma associated with seeking assistance, encouraging individuals to come out and access vital resources in a welcoming environment.

“We want people to know that there’s no shame in asking for help,” added Mainor. “Our doors are open to anyone who needs a little extra support this winter. Whether it’s a coat to keep you warm, groceries to feed your family, or just the comfort of knowing you’re not alone, we’re here to provide it.”

In addition to distributing items, local agencies and officials were present to share information about their services and programs, further expanding the resources available to attendees.

Cookies, Coats and Cocoa was made possible through UCC’s partners and supporters, including Wellpoint, RWJBarnabas Health, JP Morgan Chase Community Banking, Newark Centers of Hope, Essex County, United by Blue, and Franciscan Charities.

About United Community Corporation

United Community Corporation (UCC) is a Community Action Agency dedicated to assisting low-income, disadvantaged, and at-risk individuals and families, including seniors and youth, to achieve self-sufficiency and improve their quality of life. For more information, to donate, or to volunteer, visit uccnewark.org/volunteer.