Burlington County Sheriff James Kostoplis (second from left), Undersheriff Odise Carr (left) and other members of the Sheriff’s Office load toys for Servicios Latinos de Burlington County to distribute to families in need this holiday season.
A record number of children will experience a brighter holiday this year thanks to those who donated to the Burlington County Sheriff’s Office 28th annual Holiday Toy Drive.
The Burlington County Sheriff’s Office and Burlington County Commissioners announced the results of the drive this week, saying the contributed gifts amounted to the most received in its long history. The donations will be distributed to a record-high 307 children from needy families, along with area nonprofits and social services agencies that help families in need.
“Distributing holiday gifts is one of our favorite activities because we know we’re helping to bring some joy to underserved children and their families,” said Burlington County Sheriff James Kostoplis. “It’s only possible because of the generosity of so many who donated toys and other items. On behalf of our office, we want to thank everyone who gave and helped make this year’s holiday drive so successful yet again.”
Distribution of the collected toys began on Monday and is scheduled to continue all week. Among the groups receiving toys from the drive include The Emmons School in Pemberton Township, Catholic Charities’ Providence House Domestic Violence Services, Foster & Adoptive Services of Burlington County, Servicios Latinos De Burlington County, The Christian Caring Center, New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency, Sisterhood, Shekinah Lodge No. 32, Mothers Restoring Strength, Sickle Cell Association, The Beloved Project, Change Church, The Salvation Army and the I Am Unique organization.
The Sheriff’s Office Holiday Toy Drive is an annual tradition, but the Sheriff’s Community Outreach Unit continues to collect toys, toiletries and other household goods to help families all-year. Residents and businesses that want to donate can contact the unit at (609) 265-3788.
