Romano family to be honored at 35th Annual C. Edward McCracken Festival of Lights

The Dominick V. & Kathryn P. Romano family will be honored at the 2026 C. Edward McCracken Festival of Lights in recognition of their extraordinary commitment to Atlantic Health Newton Medical Center and the greater community.

"Through decades of enduring leadership and service, the Romano family has played an integral role in advancing the mission of Atlantic Health Newton," said Jo-Ellen McCracken Hazan, Newton Medical Center Foundation board member and co-chair of the C. Edward McCracken Festival of Lights planning committee. "Their thoughtful stewardship and vision have left a lasting impact on the hospital's ability to meet the community's evolving healthcare needs, and we are so pleased to be celebrating them at this year’s 35th annual C. Edward McCracken Festival of Lights!"

"Beyond their leadership, the Romano family's deep investment in the community reflects a profound belief in giving back and building a healthier future for all," said Dr. David Schreck, Atlantic Health, retired Vice President, Care Transitions Coordinator, and co-chair of the C. Edward McCracken Festival of Lights planning committee. "Their philanthropic support has strengthened critical programs, enhanced patient care, and reinforced the importance of access to outstanding medical services close to home."

Each year, the Romano family supports more than 300 organizations and individuals in need through both monetary and product donations. Their dedicated ShopRite store teams have raised over $2.2 million for local food pantries as part of ShopRite's signature hunger-fighting initiative, Partners in Caring. They also partner with local radio stations and the Sussex County Social Services Food Pantry for their annual Stuff the Bus events that collect many food donations, both in the summer and during the Thanksgiving season. In addition, the Romano family sponsors community blood drives and the annual Pat Romano Sr. Golf Classic to benefit the SCARC Foundation, which raises over $380,000 annually.

"It is with sincere gratitude that we celebrate the Romano family—whose legacy of philanthropy, service, and compassion continues to shine brightly throughout our community," said Megan Sandow, Chief Philanthropy Officer, Newton Medical Center Foundation. "For more than 50 years, the Romano family has been a steadfast champion of compassionate, high-quality healthcare close to home—ensuring that patients and families in our region have access to exceptional care when it matters most."

Newton Medical Center Foundation events