At Thanksgiving of 1948 a basket of food was sent to one family, beginning the practice of helping our less fortunate neighbors at that time of the year. Easter gifts were first given in 1964, and the tradition of giving at these three holidays has continued to the present. In 1940, school children were asked to solicit funds, and were rewarded with a gift certificate for 25 cents worth of merchandise at the local dry goods store. Tag Days continued until 1947 when collection cans were placed in stores, and this continued until 1962. In 1958 the card parties and other events were discontinued, due to the fact that the response from the community made these activities unnecessary.
Monetary needs are far greater now than ever.
Members of The Friendly Neighbors serve as volunteers and no expenses are taken, so all funds go toward helping Hasbrouck Heights residents. Other officers at present are Pat Boer, a 19 year member, who has served as Treasurer for 18 years, and Ethel Ball, a member for 18 years, who has been Secretary for 15 years. Other members at present include Netty Mengel, Louise Marrie and Lois Nitus. The four churches that sent two representatives to the first meeting, still continue to do so, making up the membership of eight women. During the past year 17 needy families and several older residents were helped by the Friendly Neighbors.