Casale Jewelers and Construct RELIEF bring holiday cheer to Staten Island park

In an effort to spread the holiday spirit, and give back to the community, Casale Jewelers in conjunction with the Construct RELIEF Foundation will host the first annual Holiday Winter Wonderland at Willowbrook Park from Thursday, December 12 through Saturday, December 14 from 6 to 9 p.m.

The event combines fun for the family with a fundraiser, with the money raised going to two different causes: families affected by Superstorm Sandy and Cooley’s Anemia Foundation, which helps individual diagnosed with various forms of thalassemia, a group of inherited blood disorders.

“For the past three years, I held a holiday event at the store and raised money for local charities,” said Cory Schifter of Casale Jewelers. “Last year, we donated to Sandy relief and raised over $20,000 through the holiday event and sales of a Staten Island Strong bracelet. The last three years, we raised $35,000.”

Construct RELIEF is a not for profit organization that is dedicated to help reconstructing homes in Staten Island after Superstorm Sandy. “So far, they’ve raised $200,000 dollars,” said Schifter.

After a meeting with the Staten Island Parks Department, the two organizers were given Willowbrook Park for three nights to host the event.

This year, “There will be lighting displays, train rides, a food, carousel right in the park, Santa, music, Christmas carolers as well as holiday scenes like snowmen having snowball fights. It will be lots of fun,” said Schifter. “We are also getting local high schools involved to be a part of the event as well.”

Entry to the holiday event is free, although there will be a small fees for some of the special attractions.

Current sponsors for the event include HBOThe Home Reporter and Brooklyn Spectator. The event is still seeking additional sponsors. “There are different levels of sponsorship which range from $500-$5,000,” said Schifter.

Although the holiday will be a new experience for the borough, Schifter believes it will be a positive one. “Honestly it’s the first time in Staten Island that we’re doing this,” he said. “Last year’s holidays were a little bit bleak because of the storm. This year, it should be a lot of fun as family and friends enjoy the rides and holiday activities.”

Willowbrook Park is located at Victory Boulevard, on Staten Island. For more additional information on activities, visit www.constructrelief.org. Those who wish to sponsor the event can email info@constructrelief.com.