TLC and New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers
Give Away 1,000 Toys to Drivers

“Operation Toys for Cabbies” Brings Cheer to Hardworking Drivers Who Keep NYC Moving

(Photos and videos of the event are available here.)

Long Island City, NY – The New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) hosted a toy giveaway on Thursday at TLC’s offices in Long Island City, where 1,000 toys collected by the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers (NYSFTD) were made available to TLC drivers and their families, free of charge.

“At this time of year, TLC drivers are often so busy shuttling New Yorkers to and from their own shopping trips that it can be hard to find time to do their own shopping, and this is just a small gesture to show our appreciation for their hard work,” said Taxi & Limousine Commissioner and Chair David Do. “The NYSFTD has a remarkable history of supporting drivers. We’re grateful for the contributions and honored to be hosting the giveaway.”

“Our drivers work long hours, day and night, to support their families and keep this city moving. Operation Toys for Cabbies is about giving back and taking care of our own,” said Steven Rivera, President of the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers.

“I commend President Steven Rivera and Commissioner David Do for working together and putting drivers first. This collaboration proves that unity makes a real difference,” said Fernando Mateo, Chairman and Spokesman for NYSFTD.

December is traditionally one of the busiest months for New York City’s taxi and for-hire drivers, as the winter holidays swing into full gear and New Yorkers increasingly rely on TLC-licensed vehicles to get them safely to and from shopping excursions and celebrations. Last year’s December trips exceeded 25 million, the second busiest month of the year.

TLC drivers are small businesspeople who traverse every corner of the city at all hours, and some fall victim to criminals who take advantage of the fact they are on the job alone. NYSFTD has long advocated for driver safety and support—goals that TLC supports by working in collaboration with NYPD and directing drivers who are victimized to city services. “Operation Toys for Cabbies” is the first-of-its kind collaboration between NYSFTD and TLC.

About the NYC TLC

Created in 1971, NYC TLC is the agency responsible for licensing and regulating New York City's medallion (yellow) taxi cabs, for-hire vehicles (community-based liveries, black cars, and luxury limousines), commuter vans, and paratransit vehicles, along with the businesses that operate them. It is recognized as the largest and most active taxi and for-hire vehicle regulatory body in the United States.

Almost 180,000 TLC licensees complete approximately 1,000,000 trips each day. To operate for hire, drivers must first undergo a background check, have a safe driving record, and complete 24 hours of driver training. TLC-licensed vehicles are inspected for safety and emissions at TLC's Woodside Inspection Facility.

To find out more about the TLC, or to review its rules, regulations, and procedures, we encourage you to visit our official website at www.nyc.gov/taxi or contact 311/311 Online.

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