Town Clerk Kevin LaValle and EJ's PJs founder Patricia Poggi will lead the Town of Brookhaven's annual pajama drive on December 12. The event aims to collect new pajamas for children in need and will take place at Connect Church, Centereach, from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm. For further details about EJ's PJs or donation locations, visit www.ejspjs.org or contact Town Clerk Kevin LaValle’s office.
EJ’s PJs was established by Patricia Poggi and her sons in 2011 with the purpose of distributing pajamas to those less fortunate. Named after her sons Edward, Jeremy, and Patrick, the initiative reflects their family tradition of wearing "Poggi Plaid Pajamas" during Christmas. The effort began with a simple collection bin at their home but has expanded into a community-wide endeavor with drop-off boxes throughout Suffolk.
The drive has consistently increased its reach each year due to community involvement and support from local businesses. It fosters a network of individuals dedicated to helping children through the holiday season. EJ's PJs also participates in events like the Town of Brookhaven’s Annual Youth Interface Program Toy Drive.
A notable milestone occurred on December 11, 2021, when Pastor Hank Kistler of Connect Church hosted an event that collected over a thousand pairs of pajamas for donation.