Burlington County Sheriff's Department Collects 220 Toys For Kids

BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ — More than 220 children in Burlington County received toys during what the sheriff’s department is calling its “largest Holiday Toy Drive ever.” It was a 50 percent increase over last year’s drive, according to Burlington County Sheriff Anthony Basantis.

“Each year, we set out to make the holidays special for families who are struggling. This year, we were able to brighten the holiday for more children than ever before,” Basantis said. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of our officers and civilian staff, partner agencies and the incredible generosity of all who donated. I want to thank everyone involved, wishing them and their families a happy holiday.”

He called the community support for this year’s drive “unprecedented.”

Multiple agencies helped with the distribution of toys and other items to additional families and children in need, including:

• The Department of Child Protection and Permanency’s East and West offices;
• The Christian Caring Center, Sisterhood, Foster and Adoptive Services;
• The Edgewater Park School District;
• The Florence Township Police Department;
• Catholic Charities Providence House Youth Advocate Program; and
• The Pemberton Township School District.

More than 60 business, nonprofits and government offices also volunteered to serve as collection sites for the drive.

“Tis the season of giving, and once again, our Sheriff’s Department has set an example for us all to follow with this successful toy drive,” Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson said. “Thanks to the department and the community and business support they receive, numerous local children will have something under their trees. It’s an outstanding service, and we’re overjoyed by this year’s incredible success.”

The Burlington County Sheriff’s Department’s Community Services Unit will continue to accept and distribute donations of food, toiletries, water, toys and other household goods to agencies and families in need throughout the year.