During a Thanksgiving celebration at the Oasis: A Haven for Women and Children on Mill Street, Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno and her staff visited to serve hot meals to needy women and children.

“When staff and volunteers provide a hot meal, a health program or training class, they also provide participants the tools for a new beginning and self-sufficiency,” Guadagno said. “I thank Oasis for its continued care for Paterson’s residents in need.”

The organization since it opened its doors in 1997 has been providing meals to women and children in need. It is estimated the organization serves more than 65,000 hot meals every year.

“We are very excited that Lieutenant Governor Guadagno can join us again for the annual Thanksgiving celebration at Oasis,” executive director of the organization Gloria Perez said.

In 2007 the organization expanded its mission to provide health and safety services as well as language and workforce development programs for women. The organization attempts to uplift families by providing food, clothing, social services, and employment training.

“Many of the women joining us for this special meal have also participated in the adult education and workplace readiness programs of Oasis, where we strive to prepare them for jobs in our community,” director of development for the organization Kathleen Long added.

“It is a privilege to join Oasis and see the immediate, positive effect its programs have on the women and children it serves,” Guadagno said. The Lieutenant Governor visited the location on Tuesday as part of the Governor Chris Christie’s “Season of Service” initiative that gives back through volunteerism to the greater Garden State community. The initiative also encourages New Jerseyans to volunteer in their local communities.

“This event brings together corporate groups, public servants and other local leaders with over 1000 women and children in our community who are struggling to make ends meet this Thanksgiving,” Perez said.