“It’s incredibly heart-warming to see the goodwill exhibited by New Jersey’s state workers,” said Human Services Commissioner Jennifer Velez, whose department coordinated the collection drive. “I think the success of this holiday collection shows the interconnectedness of New Jersey’s residents and the desire of state workers to do what they can to help individuals and families who are struggling.”
Immediately following the coat drive, state workers began the toy-drive, which involves collecting new, unwrapped games, dolls, coloring books and other fun items for kids from infancy to age 18. Last year, over 3,200 toys were donated by state workers and delivered to organizations and families across the state.
This year, the toy drive will culminate on December 16th in order to ensure distribution by Christmas.
Trenton-based offices’ donations are divided among local non-profit agencies at the discretion of the each department. Other state agencies, facilities, regional and satellite offices designate non-profit organizations in their respective areas for distribution.
Please see below for a list of Administration officials who will be participating in coat drop-off events. Any inquiries on the below events should be directed to the corresponding department or agency.
MERCER COUNTY
1. WHO: DHS Commissioner Jennifer Velez
WHERE: Trenton Area Soup Kitchen
72 Escher Street
Trenton
WHEN: Thursday, December 1 at 3:30 p.m.
PRESS: Open
2. WHO: DOE Acting-Commissioner Christopher Cerf
WHERE; Anchor House
482 Centre Street
Trenton
WHEN: Friday, December 2 at 11 a.m.
PRESS: Open
3. WHO: DOT Commissioner James Simpson
WHERE: Tender Hearts
320 Scully Avenue
Hamilton Township
WHEN: Monday, December 5 at 3 p.m.
PRESS: Open
4. WHO: DHS Commissioner Jennifer Velez
WHERE: HomeFront Free Store
1000 Division Street
Trenton
WHEN: Tuesday, December 6 at 9 a.m.
PRESS: Open
