Exxxotica, an annual sex convention in New Jersey, raised $5,000 and collected donations for Superstorm Sandy survivors this month.
Celebrities big and small from Bruce Springsteen to the cast of Jersey Shore have raised money for Superstorm Sandy recovery to meet a need so profound even the sex industry is showing its charitable side.
Exxotica, an annual three-day sex and porn convention held at the New Jersey Expo and Convention Center this month, collected food and other donations for hurricane survivors in addition to raising nearly $5,000—all after flooding almost forced the expo’s cancellation.
“People think of it as such a tainted business,” said Kathi, who volunteered to help run the charity silent auction and donation collection booth. “After so many years, it’s nice to give back.”
Porn stars doing meet-and-greets urged fans to donate. So did New Jersey rappers Naughty by Nature, who headlined the Saturday night stage, performing their hits, “O.P.P.” and “Hip Hop Horray.”
Same as other Sandy efforts, many donors were victims themselves. The money raised was donated to not-for-profit charity, Relief for Little Ferry and Moonachie Fund—named for two storm-ravaged northern New Jersey towns.
“It was an incredible feeling being able to contribute to help the community that has supported us so much over the years,” said J. Handy, director of Exxotica. “We hope this pay it forward mentality continues until these areas are whole again.”
The expo included more than 100 porn stars, sex toy booths and talent scouts, among other exhibits. Porn stars Tera Patrick and Ron Jeremy were among those who also taught seminars throughout the weekend.
“The stars themselves said this was the best show to date in terms of selling merchandise and being able to meet their admirers while doing good via the charity relief efforts,” said Dan Davis, editor of CLUB magazine. We’re honored to have played a part … New Jersey needed it!”
Exxotica will hold an expo next April at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, where Sandy made landfall three weeks ago.
