It’s the season of giving and the Burlington County Sheriff’s Office is once again collecting new toys to give area children and their families in need a joyful holiday.
The Sheriff’s 29th Annual Toy Drive is underway with donation bins at close to 50 locations across Burlington County. Collections will occur regularly from now through Dec. 13.
Hundreds of toys and gifts were collected during last year’s drive and were distributed to local families in need by the Sheriff’s Office and its partners. The Sheriff’s Office also continues to accept and distribute donations of food, toiletries, water, toys, paper supplies and other household goods for distribution year-round.
“As members of law enforcement, we take a lot of pride in serving Burlington County communities and the toy drive is a special part of that service,” said Burington Couty Sheriff James Kostoplis. “It’s a longstanding tradition that has brightened the holidays for thousands of children and families. We want to make this year’s drive our most successful yet, so we’re once again reaching out for community support.”
A complete list of donation bin locations is available on the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page (www.facebook.com/Burcosheriffnj) and County website (www.co.burlington.nj.us/DocumentCenter/View/20284/2024-TOY-DRIVE-FLYER--BOX-LOCATIONS).
The Sheriff’s Office originally began collecting toys and other items as a holiday service, but it has grown the past four years into a year-round operation that has aided numerous families throughout the year.
“The Toy Drive began as a way to help make sure all Burlington County children received a toy or gift during the holidays, regardless of their family’s circumstances,” said Sheriff Kostoplis. “That’s still our goal, but we also know that need exists year-round. Thanks to the generosity of Burlington County’s residents and businesses we’ve been able to provide help 12 months a year and at the same time build stronger ties with the communities we protect and serve.”
Businesses or offices interested in hosting a donation bin should contact the Sheriff’s Community Outreach Unit at 609-265-3788.
Donated toys and gifts will be distributed to local families who could benefit from some holiday assistance. Questions about the Toy Drive should contact the Sheriff’s Office at 609-265-3788.