Yazminelly Gonzalez advocates for children in honor of activist dad Juan Martinez
Juan Martinez knew the answer to building a better Trenton. Children. Martinez, who passed away in May 2015 leaving a legacy of both advocate and activist, understood that nurturing children in all aspects of their lives, proved crucial to their development and future.
Former Trenton Mayor Eric Jackson offered these words about Martinez during a ceremony that named a Lamberton St. park after the community supporter.
“We’re here today because Juan believed in Trenton,” Mayor Eric Jackson said at a dedication ceremony.
“We’re here because he believed that making a difference started with our children — that we work through our children, educate our children, build up the quality in our children. He believed that our community and our city would be better for it.”
Located at 428 Lamberton St., the park will be the site for a special venue on Tuesday, Aug. 20 as Martinez’ daughter, Yazminelly Gonzalez, hosts a free book bag giveaway in honor of her father.
“I’m just continuing my father’s work for the most part since he passed away. Most people have asked me to keep some of his work alive. You know book bag giveaways was one of his most special events,” Gonzalez said.
“We have three separate book bag giveaways but the one at the park is most special for me, my mom and brother. It’s a park that bears his name. Plus, this is on the block that he lived at for many, many years. It’s special because it’s like, we’re bringing this event to where home used to be for him.”
The 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. party includes book bags for the first 150 kids who register with an adult. Ms. Gonzalez said the event includes supplies and books offered by the Nicky Fifth Foundation. Hot dogs and hamburgers will be served during this free event. Registration begins at 5 p.m.
For more information contact Yazminelly Gonzalez (609) 8377799.