The Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade Committee held its 2nd Annual Health & Resource Fair & Toy Giveaway to mark Three Kings Day (Jan. 6) on Saturday, Jan. 4. This year, the event was held at James Monroe Houses, located at 1780 Story Avenue in Soundview.

 

Three Kings Day or “El Dia de los Reyes” in Spanish is a cherished tradition in Puerto Rican culture, commemorating the arrival of the Magi, who brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to honor the Baby Jesus after his birth on Dec. 25. The committee members said the annual tradition keeps the spirit of giving alive for the children of The Bronx.

Hundreds of toys were distributed to children ages 1-12 from the Monroe Houses community, with the aim of providing a joyful and free community experience.

In addition to the toy giveaway, the event also featured health information and support services tailored for seniors to promote well-being.
In advance of the event, The Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade committee accepted donations of unwrapped toys or monetary contributions to support the giveaway.

Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade President Maribel Mercado, committee board members, volunteers, “The Three Kings,” Miriam Sanchez, president of Monroe Housing Center, the NYPD Bronx Borough Community Affairs team, P.S. 8 representatives, the NYPD Explorers, and the Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade 2024 queen and princesses all took part in the event.

 

State Sen. Nathalia Fernandez (S.D. 34) and all the event sponsors were thanked on the day. Attendees also included representatives from Fidelis, S&A Homecare, Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson and cure violence group, Stand Up to Violence (SUV), all of whom came together to make the fair a memorable occasion for the kids.

 

The parade committee members said it was heartwarming to witness the enthusiasm and support and community spirit in action, bringing together so many dedicated people and organizations, and sponsors, all of whom played a crucial role in ensuring the event’s success. “Kudos to all involved for their hard work and dedication,” they said.

 

The Office of the Bronx Borough President held a separate Three Kings Day celebration on Three Kings Day itself, Jan. 6, at P.S. 48, located at 1290 Spofford Avenue in Hunts Point, in conjunction with various community partners and sponsors.

Editor’s Note: Miriam Quiñones is a freelance photographer with Norwood News.