JACKSON — The Jackson Township PBA membership has become aware that there are several local families that are having a tough time economically.
As in years past the Jackson PBA membership will again be helping families that are in need, according to a press release from the association. The PBA started donating holiday meals to needy families on Thanksgiving and Christmas five years ago. This started as a simple collection of money donated by the membership. These funds were used to purchase food for the needy, which the members then distributed within the community.
Three years ago the PBA started collecting food and toys from the general public, as well as continuing the holiday meal program.
This collection program is currently being assisted by the Jackson Women of Today, ShopRite of Jackson, and Stop and Shop. The Jackson Women of Today run a local food bank in conjunction with the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. The Jackson Women of Today also distribute any toys that are donated. In years past the PBA has delivered truckloads of food and toys to the Jackson Women of Today.
This year the PBA has teamed up with Wal-Mart to begin another program. Wal-Mart has provided to the PBA several bicycles that have been slightly damaged or are in need of repair. The PBA members are currently working with Santa and his elves to make the necessary repairs so that these, too, may be distributed to children of needy families during this holiday season.
The PBA is asking residents for support and to remember those who are less fortunate. Look for the donation barrels at these locations: food may be donated at the ShopRite of Jackson and the Jackson Stop and Shop; food and toys may be donated at the Jackson police station lobby.
For more information or to inform the PBA of a family in need of assistance, call Lt. Richard Wagner or Sgt. Edward Bennett at (732) 928-1111.