Thirty-three Years of Thanksgiving Tradition: Essex County Sheriff's Impact
Thirty-three years ago, Armando Fontoura began his remarkable journey as Essex County sheriff. Not long after winning his first term, he received a call that would change the course of his career and the lives of many. This call led to the launch of a Thanksgiving tradition that has provided thousands of turkeys to Newark's neediest over the years.
A Sheriff's Legacy of Giving During Thanksgiving
Early Beginnings and Mission
Thirty-three years ago, Armando Fontoura won the first term of his 11 terms as Essex County sheriff. Soon after, he got a call from the nun in charge of the Newark location of Missionaries of Charity-St. Augustine. This women's shelter, food pantry, and soup kitchen was dedicated by Mother Teresa in 1981. Fontoura and his team went to take a look and ensure the safety of those in need. They were amazed to find that they were already feeding people - lunch and dinner every day. This initial encounter set the stage for a tradition that would continue to grow.During his law enforcement career, Fontoura started as a Newark Police officer in April 1967. Three months before the city's unrest that left 26 people dead, he began his journey. He rose through the ranks and was appointed county undersheriff and interim sheriff in 1990. Throughout his tenure, he remained untainted by misconduct allegations and faced various challenges such as the 9/11 terror attacks, the fentanyl-laced opioid crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.The Thanksgiving Tradition
The complaint about a hole in the fence led to the launch of a Thanksgiving tradition that has become an integral part of Essex County. Every year, during the sheriff's Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive for Needy Families, about 50 officers deliver more than 500 turkeys and related holiday fare to 44 pantries, soup kitchens, and other food distribution sites. This tradition allows Fontoura and his team to give back to the community in a softer way than their usual duties.This year, however, the turkey drive is bittersweet. Fontoura, who will step down in January as the longest-tenured sheriff in Essex County's history, will lead the two-day convoy of poultry and fixings for the last time. He has had a wonderful career, moving from his native Portugal to Newark's Ironbound section as a 12-year-old boy who didn't speak English. He considers himself an example of what America offers and is grateful for everything he has achieved.Impact and Collaboration
Fontoura's food drive has had a significant impact on the community. It has provided families in need with Thanksgiving dinner and exemplified his humane approach to law enforcement. Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo said, "For three and a half decades, his annual turkey drive has provided families in need with Thanksgiving dinner, which is just one example of how Armando has made a positive difference in the lives of our residents."Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon also praised Fontoura, saying, "As sheriff, there's no better man out there. He's really done a phenomenal job in some tough times. I can't say enough about him."Even with food prices up only 2% for the 12 months ending in October, many families are still struggling to put food on the table. Nicole Williams, a spokesperson for the non-profit Community Food Bank of New Jersey, said, "The need has not relaxed at all. Even though inflation has leveled out a little bit, prices of necessities are still really high, wages are stagnant, and it's really a combination of factors that have made lines longer at pantries."Continuing the Tradition
Fontoura called the turkey drive "a labor of love" and said his successor, Democratic Sheriff-elect Amir Jones, vowed to continue the tradition. This shows the lasting impact of Fontoura's work and the importance of giving back during the holiday season.Looking back on his career, Fontoura said, "It's been a wonderful, wonderful experience." He is now looking forward to devoting more time to his grandchildren and his golf game.In conclusion, Armando Fontoura's 33-year Thanksgiving tradition is a testament to his dedication and humanity. His work has touched the lives of many and will continue to inspire others to give back.
