SUSSEX COUNTY, N.J.— Local businesses, first responders and community organizations are joining forces for the 13th annual Stuff the Boat toy collection, an initiative benefiting Project Self-Sufficiency’s Season of Hope Toy Drive for children in Sussex, Warren and northern Morris counties.
Organized by Off Shore Marine in Branchville, the annual effort encourages residents to donate new, unwrapped toys and gift cards to fill a 24-foot boat at the dealership, located at 357 Route 206.
The collection, announced Thursday, Nov. 12, brings together several local emergency service organizations, businesses and community groups to help provide holiday gifts for families in need.
Participating organizations include the Branchville Hose Company, Blue Ridge Rescue Squad, Frankford Township Fire Department, Sussex Fire and Emergency Medical Service, and the Ladies Auxiliary of the Sussex Fire Department.
The Wanderers Car Club, Kiwanis Club of Sussex and Royal Buick GMC of Sussex are also participating.
“This marks the thirteenth annual Stuff the Boat collection for Project Self-Sufficiency’s Season of Hope Toy Drive,” remarked Off Shore Marine owner Sherri Cecchini, who was inspired to launch the effort after dropping off a bag of toys and touring the non-profit agency years ago. “I was blown away by the toy shop which was being set up at the time, and knew that I needed to be a part of it! We are invested in our community; we have built our business and raised our family here. Putting goodness into the world is the right thing to do, and if we each contribute where and what we can, together we can make a real difference.”
Residents will have several opportunities to contribute to the collection throughout the holiday season.
Off Shore Marine will participate in the Branchville Fire Department Christmas Parade of Lights on Saturday, Nov. 28. Donations can be placed in the boat at the Branchville Fire House before the parade lineup, from noon to 5 p.m.
The dealership will also host a Community Drop Off Day on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The event will feature refreshments, photos with Santa Claus and firetrucks. Visitors are encouraged to arrive before 11 a.m. to watch Santa arrive on his sleigh.
Donations can also be dropped off directly at Off Shore Marine through Tuesday, Dec. 8.
“This unique collaboration between local businesses and area first responders perfectly demonstrates the true spirit of giving during this holiday season,” commented Deborah Berry-Toon, Chief Executive Officer, Project Self-Sufficiency. “Now more than ever, we are grateful for this community’s steadfast commitment to our neighbors in need. Thousands of families will be helped by this initiative.”
Project Self-Sufficiency coordinates the Season of Hope Toy Drive to provide holiday gifts to thousands of children throughout Sussex, Warren and northern Morris counties.
In addition to the Stuff the Boat collection, the organization is accepting new, unwrapped toys, gift cards and monetary donations at its headquarters at 127 Mill St. in Newton.
Donations can be delivered Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information about the Season of Hope Toy Drive or to make an online donation, visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org or call 973-940-3500.
