By DON STINE
Ocean Township residents are urged to help their less fortunate neighbors by donating food or money to the township’s annual food drive.
“Last year we helped about 172 families and about 180 the year before,” said Jennifer Appio, administrative assistant at the township’s Human Services Department.
The Ocean Township Thanksgiving Food Drive, which has been in operation for more than 25 years, is an annual tradition where schools, businesses, public employees, families, and neighbors work together to ensure that people in need know that they are remembered by their community during the holiday season.
The food drive is sponsored by The Community Hope Fund and the Department of Human Services. People are urged to donate individual items or a box of food that can accommodate a family of four to six people. Volunteers are also needed to deliver prepared boxes on Sun., Nov. 20.
“People are always very thankful and appreciative when they receive the donations,” Appio said.
She said most recipients are recommended by social service organizations although they can request donations on their own.
Foods donated should include traditional holiday and other food items, like stuffing, canned fruit/vegetables, cranberry sauce, instant potatoes, soup, cereal, instant coffee, gravy, peanut butter, pasta and sauces, instant hot chocolate, jelly, cookies/fruit snacks and crackers.
Donations are accepted through Friday, Nov. 16. Please check the expiration dates on all food items to assure the best quality. To make a monetary donation for gift certificates to purchase turkeys and other perishable items, make checks payable to Community Hope Fund and mail to 601 Deal Road, Ocean Township, NJ 07712.
To deliver donations or checks go the Human Services building at the same address. To get there, enter the driveway to the township’s Public Library, off Deal Road, but go straight (north) towards the water tower, and then make a right.
For more information and to volunteer, contact Appio at jappio@oceantwp.org or telephone 732-531-2600.
