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First New York Teams Up with Catholic Charities for 2025’s Toilet Paper Drive Take Down Event

• For Immediate Release
• Media Contact: Cassandra Nadler, Assistant Vice President of Marketing
• Call or Text (518) 424-1398

ALBANY, NY – On Tuesday, December 9th, 2025 at 10:00 AM, First New York Federal Credit Union will showcase their forest of toilet paper trees created with over 10,000 rolls of toilet paper collected by their membership. Together with Catholic Charities Tri-County Services staff, the groups will count down to the destruction of the installation. Each roll will then be hand packed and transported off to Catholic Charities Tri-County Services’ five Capital Region food pantries and two soup kitchens. Upon arrival, the supplies will replenish this essential asset for the community.

Members of the media and dignitaries are invited to attend the 2025 Toilet Paper Take Down Event

Tuesday, December 9th, 2025 at 10:00 AM
First New York Corporate Headquarters at 2 Wall Street, Albany, NY 12205

The count down to the dismantling of the trees is a great video/photo opportunity. The enormous pile left over and the speed at which the teams pack Catholic Charities’ line of vehicles is a sight to see. Below are highlighted moments from last year’s event.

Many individuals in the Capital Region who rely on Food Stamps (SNAP) are unable to use those benefits to buy essential hygiene items—like toilet paper. That is why First New York steps up each year to partner with Catholic Charities Tri-County Services to aid the 15-20% yearly increase in individuals requiring this necessity.

“Our neighbors are facing increasing challenges with the rising cost of housing, utilities, and groceries. The continued strain on local food pantries makes it difficult to meet even the most basic needs,” said Jenn Hyde, Executive Director of Catholic Charities Tri-County Services. “The leadership and generosity of First New York Federal Credit Union and their members fill a critical gap with this toilet paper donation, ultimately helping families and seniors maintain dignity and stability during these difficult times.”

“Once again, the members and staff of First New York Federal Credit Union have demonstrated that when we come together, doing what we can, we make the world a better place,” says  Catholic Charities of the Albany Diocese CEO Sister Betsy Van Deusen, CSJ. “Congratulations also to retiring President and CEO Lucy Gottung Halstead for her extraordinary leadership in making this event a lasting and impactful tradition.”

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About First New York: First New York Federal Credit Union has been selected as the Best Credit Union four years running in the Daily Gazette’s Best of the Best People’s Choice Awards, and was recognized as a 2024 Top Workplace by the Albany Times Union.

Founded in 1937, First New York is a full-service, not-for-profit financial cooperative that provides personal and business banking to consumers and businesses in the Capital Region. First New York offers complete financial services, including checking and savings accounts, auto and home loans, credit cards, online and mobile banking, business services, and commercial and investment services.

The Credit Union currently has $524 million in assets. It serves over 37,000+ members with full-service branches in Albany, Cobleskill, Glenville, Halfmoon, Niskayuna, North Greenbush, Rotterdam, and Saratoga, and scholastic branches in Schenectady, Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake, Mohonasen, Waterford-Halfmoon, and Galway High Schools. Members can access 5,550+ shared branch locations and 30,000+ fee-free ITM/ATMs nationwide.

About Catholic Charities Tri-County Services: Catholic Charities Tri-County Services offers a wide range of essential services designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals and families across Albany, Rensselaer, and Schenectady counties. Our programs support people of all ages, from infants to seniors. Helping individuals access essential human needs such as food, shelter, and safety is at the heart of our mission, as we empower them to grow, thrive, and reach their fullest potential.

To learn more, go to: https://www.ccrcda.org/agencies-and-programs/catholic-charities-tri-county-services/ and https://www.facebook.com/CCTriCounty.

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