The following is from the City of Newark Police Department
On December 21, 2016, Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose announced that members of the Newark Police and Fire Divisions escorted Santa Claus to the home of Edithmarie Velez, a 2-year old Newark child suffering from Nonketotic Hyperglycinemia, a rare and terminal illness.
Santa’s surprise visit began with a procession including police motorcycles, an Emergency Services Unit Truck and a fire truck to the child’s residence. Batman, BatGirl and one of Santa’s elves were also on hand to deliver Christmas cheer to Edithmarie and her family.
Gifts were also provided to Edithmarie’s 3-year old cousin, Leslie Espinosa, who was born with hydrocephalus, a brain disorder, and to Leslie’s twin brother, Linger.
With donations provided through a partnership with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program, the family received some 30 gifts, including bicycles.
“Families that are dealing with challenging issues all year long deserve special attention during the holiday season,” Director Ambrose said. “I highly commend the detectives and officers of our Community Affairs Unit and every member of the Newark Department of Public Safety who invested their time and energy into putting smiles on the faces of these children. This is what public service is all about.”
