Remembering our troops and supporting those in need on Thanksgiving
November 23, 2009 by NJ News
Filed under Local Politics
AS THE START of the holiday season approaches, the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders asked residents to remember both our troops fighting in the War Against Terror and those in need this Thanksgiving.
“Please, take a few moments from the turkey dinner and the football games to think of our brave men and women who are away from their families this holiday,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Gerry P. Little. “Remember the sacrifices and hardships they are facing to keep our great nation safe.”
Little also asked residents to consider making a donation to one of the more than 30 food banks and food pantries that are helping local families put a Thanksgiving meal of the table.
“With 10 percent unemployment, we are facing a record number of residents who need our help,” he said. “What better way to kick off the season of giving than by helping those who have fallen on hard times.”
He asked everyone to think of their neighbors as the colder months approach.
“I want to thank all the schools, churches and faith-based organizations, the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and other charities and non-profits that rally together to help the needy each year,” Little said.
Many of these same organizations are also holding holiday food drives.
“Please contribute,” Little said. “Even a few cans of vegetables can make a big difference for a family in need.”
The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department is collecting food at several convenient locations.
“The holidays can be such a difficult time of year for families experiencing economic hardships,” Sheriff William L. Polhemus said. “We want to help those members of our community that may be struggling this upcoming holiday season.”
Non-perishable food items can be dropped off at bins at the Ocean County Justice Complex at 120 Hooper Avenue, the Ocean County Administration Building, 101 Hooper Avenue, the Ocean County One-Stop Center at 1027 Hooper Avenue, Building 2, the Ocean County Clerk’s Office at 118 Washington Street, and the County Connection located near JC Penney at the Ocean County Mall, all located in Toms River. The County Connection is open during regular mall hours including the weekend.
Many churches and faith-based organizations are also preparing special Thanksgiving dinners for the needy.
The Salvation Army is hosting its annual “Hearty Helpings Thanksgiving Dinner” on Wednesday, November 25 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Ocean County Salvation Army Headquarters, 1738 Route 37 East in Toms River. For more information on the dinner or other scheduled holiday dinners, please call the Salvation Army at (732) 270-8393.
