Holiday Express Begins Busy Holiday Season

By Christopher Sheldon

In the confines of a large warehouse in Tinton Falls, thousands of volunteers have been gathering to spread holiday cheer throughout the state.

Holiday Express, a non-profit organization founded by local musician and restaurant owner Tim McLoone, just began its busiest time of the year.

Holiday Express has grown in size and ambition over its 21-year-history. The organization has grown from a few a concerts a year to year-round effort comprised of thousands of volunteers.

More than 1,500 volunteers, including 100 musicians, will travel to 63 locations in November and December to deliver music, food and gifts to the less fortunate during the time when they need it most.

"The key is the volunteers, we couldn't do what we do without them," Holiday Express Executive Director Donald Pignataro said.

The organization will visit schools for children with special needs, centers for developmentally disabled adults and the homeless and hungry.

Tim McLoone and the other volunteer musicians bring a full concert to each place they visit, including the Harbor School in Eatontown on Dec. 6, Ocean Mental Health Center in Toms River on Nov. 19 and Trinity Church Soup Kitchen in Asbury Park on Christmas Eve.

Over 16,000 gift bags will be donated to students and residents of these schools and centers in the next two months.

"Almost everything is donated," Pignataro said. "If not, we are given a budget and we buy it."

The 8,000-square-foot warehouse at 968 Shrewsbury Ave., is filled with everything from blankets and robes to toiletries and toys.

Much of the food that Holiday Express brings to its events is donated from places such as Frito Lay and Shop Rite.

"Jersey Mikes donated thousands of subs to us," Pignataro said.

Holiday Express, like many non-profit organizations, relies on donations and volunteer work, but it does have some fundraisers throughout the year to help out including a clam bake and golf outing.

However, its largest fundraisers are its holiday concerts at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark on Dec. 11 and Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank on Dec. 19.

Even with the help of the volunteers and fundraisers, the public can still help by donating money or items to Holiday Express.

To find out what you can donate, call 732-544-8010.