20th Annual Have a Heart for the Holidays Gift Drive Luncheon

Scarsdale resident and Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS) Board member Linda Plattus hosted her 20th annual luncheon, along with WJCS Board Members Sarah Kayle and Nina Ross; NextGen Council Members Yael Friedland and Samantha Stavis; and Host Committee Michelle Dinenberg, Poornima Eber, Allison Friedland, Fara Friedman, Jennifer Galeon, Jessica Levinson, Jessica Eckhaus Modell, and Robin Silk on November 19, 2025.

Luncheon guest brought toys, games, and gift cards that will be distributed to WJCS clients who live in under-resourced communities. For many of these families in need, these toys will be the only gift they are able to give their children this season. Over 1,000 gifts have been committed to the drive to date.

Guests heard from WJCS Board President William Shirley, Chief Executive Officer Seth Diamond, Assistant Executive Director of Children, Youth, and Families Katrina Schermerhorn, and Director of Family Matters Carolyn Murphy about the breadth and depth of WJCS's programs and services that improve the lives of thousands of Westchester residents each year.

The floral centerpiece was donated by House of Flowers in Mamaroneck, and cookies and cakes were donated by Martine’s Fine Bake Shop in Scarsdale. Donations to the WJCS Have a Heart for the Holidays Gift Drive can be made here.