Honorees

Anthony Bevivino

Villas
2015 Honoree

Focus Area:

Homeless Support

Organizational Affiliation:

About

Anthony Bevivino, of Villas, the recipient of the $25,000 Russ Berrie Award for Making a Difference, prefers to work behind the scenes and under the radar. However, his efforts speak volumes to the many people who have been on the receiving end of his dedication and resourcefulness. Anthony, a former science teacher and bed-and-breakfast owner in Cape May County, realized that all the B&Bs were disposing their linens at the end of the season. He was sure that those items could be put to use by people in the community who were in need. He gathered the linens himself and delivered them to individuals and agencies. That single act of kindness so many years ago kick-started a community-wide effort to provide blankets, clothing and other essential items, including baby furniture, store gift cards and monetary offerings to homeless shelters, veterans’ organizations, victims of domestic violence and church food pantries, among others, throughout Cape May County. In the past three years alone, Anthony has collected and distributed more than 3,800 coats to adults and children. More than 25 organizations and countless individuals have received assistance from Tony and his volunteers.