Sparta Women's Club Supports Holiday Toy Drive

Members of the Sparta Women’s Club gathered on Thursday for a festive holiday luncheon at the Lake Mohawk Country Club.  The event included the presentation of hundreds of toys for the Season of Hope Holiday Toy Drive to representatives from Project Self-Sufficiency, the non-profit organization which is spearheading the local toy drive along with Pass it Along, the New Jersey Herald, Clear Channel Radio, Intercar Mercedes Benz and Sussex Honda.  The effort aims to collect 10,000 toys for infants through adolescents this year.  Gifts will be distributed to families in Sussex County and northern Warren County in mid-December.

Sparta Women’s Club member Dot Dedrick has organized the distribution of toys to the agency’s holiday toy drive for years.  “It is important to remember those who are less fortunate than us,” she noted.  As part of the holiday party, Dot also coordinates the sale of holiday cards as well as a silent auction.  Proceeds benefit scholarships for local women who are attending college.

A wish list has been assembled for those who want to contribute, but may be unsure of what to donate.  Items needed for teens include electronics,  such as calculators, watches, portable music devices, computer games and software, popular CD’s; make-up, perfume, scented lotions, hair dryers, hair straighteners, curling irons; jewelry and accessories; sports equipment and team gear, such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats; popular books; clothing and pajamas; and backpacks. 

Items sought for younger children include books; legos, blocks and k’nex toys; action figures; DVD’s and CD’s; electronic learning games; infant toys; multicultural dolls and toys; Play Doh; trading and collectible cards; matchbox cars; and trendy toys. 

In addition, donation of wrapping paper, gift bags, gift boxes and stocking stuffers are always appreciated.

Gift items can be dropped off at Project Self-Sufficiency, which is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton, Monday – Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; additional drop-off sites are located throughout the county.  Donations are requested by December 12th in order to allow ample time for the items to be distributed to needy families. 

For information about the Season of Hope Holiday Toy Drive, call Project Self-Sufficiency at 973-940-3500 or visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org.