News 12 Connecticut's Frank Recchia received a special honor Saturday in Bridgeport.

Mayor Joe Ganim and Sen. Richard Blumenthal honored Recchia for his years of service to the Bridgeport community, declaring Oct. 8, 2016 "Frank Recchia Day" in the city.

Recchia's family joined him at City Hall for the celebration.

Local leaders praised him for helping people with disabilities get wheelchairs and handicap-accessible vans.

Recchia was also lauded for helping a homeless Army veteran get his own apartment.

Sen. Blumenthal said Recchia is a credit to News 12 and to his community.

"Frank Recchia cares and that's why he brings out the best in people. He reports fairly and accurately what people do to help others, and News 12 performs a vital function by putting Frank Recchia on the air," says Sen. Blumenthal.

Recchia was also honored by Bridgeport City Councilwoman Mary McBride Lee, who said Frank has changed countless lives through his community service and positive reporting.

"My prayer and hope every day is that I will have the opportunity on this day to help somebody for no other reason but then to help them," says Recchia.

Recchia dedicated the honor to Joe Kaliko of the local nonprofit group The Needs Clearing House, whom he has worked closely with in helping others.