There are heroes among us—often grandparents. When tragedy happens and grandchildren are cut adrift from their parents, grandparents often step in, many on limited incomes. As primary caregivers, they make sure their grandchildren feel loved and supported—something that, for many, can be particularly hard during the holiday season. They spend what they can to ensure their grandchildren have gifts, often going without for themselves.
Ten years ago, our NY Senator in Albany—Andrea Stewart-Cousins—decided these heroes needed recognition. The Angel Project was born.
The project reaches out to these hero-grandparents for wish lists (totaling no more than $100). The Angel Project then matches these heroes with volunteer “angels” who fulfill those wishes. Last year 200 angels and grandparents participated.
“The Angel Project is our way of showing gratitude to the unsung heroes in our communities—grandparents who selflessly step up to raise their grandchildren,” Senator Stewart-Cousins explained. “This small gesture of thanks reflects the immense appreciation we have for their love and dedication. It’s truly heartwarming to witness so many ‘angels’ come together to make a difference.”
The Project partners with Family Service Society of Yonkers, Family Ties of Westchester, Westchester County DSS, and other agencies in Stewart-Cousins’ district. These agencies collect wish lists of up to three items from the grandparents they serve. That list is then shared with an assigned angel.
The deadline for signing up is coming up fast: November 25. If you would like to be an angel, whether returning or new, please click on the button below and complete The Project Angel form.
Or call Senator Stewart-Cousins’ district office at (914) 423-4031. You can also email for information by clicking on the button below. But please do it quickly.
All gifts should be received at Stewart-Cousins’ office, 28 Wells Avenue, 5th Floor, Yonkers, NY 10701, no later than Friday, December 12.
Presents should be wrapped or put in a gift box and labeled with both your name and the name of your grandparent. If you plan to have the gift or gift card mailed or delivered to the district office, please ensure it will arrive in time. Note: Delivery services like Amazon do not deliver to the district office on weekends or after 5 pm.
On December 17, The Angel Project hosts a holiday lunch at Castle Royale from noon to 2 pm. There, angels will have the opportunity to present their gifts to the grandparents whose wishes they’ve fulfilled. If an angel cannot attend, someone will present the gift on that person’s behalf.
Think about it: If you choose to be a 2025 angel, your generosity will bring joy to a grateful hero-grandparent this holiday season.