Toy drive under way in county

   The Burlington County Sheriff’s Department’s 11th Annual Holiday Toy Drive will run through Monday, Dec. 18.
   "Toys must be at one of the 49 drop-off locations by 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 18, before collection begins," said Sheriff Jean Stanfield. "We will pick up the toys on Monday and Tuesday (Dec. 18 and 19) to distribute to the human services the next day (Wednesday, Dec. 20)."
   "Last year we had our most successful toy drive ever, collecting more than 4,000 new toys that were distributed to more than 1,000 less fortunate children in Burlington County for Christmas," she continued. "I continue to be overwhelmed by the generosity of Burlington County residents every year. This program definitely makes a difference in many people’s lives, and it is one of the highlights of my year."
   Residents are asked to drop off new, unused and unwrapped toys at any of 49 locations (see drop-off sites).
   Distribution to agencies will begin at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 20 after the personnel from the County Office of Consumer Affairs conducts a safety inspection of the toys. Last year, the organizations that participated in the distribution of the toys included DYFS, Servicious Latinos, Foster & Adoptive Family Services, Providence House, Delaware House, Sisterhood (Burlington City) and Family Services.
   The Community Services Unit, with assistance from the Senior Services Unit and Civil Process Office, coordinate the drive for the Sheriff’s Department. For further information, contact (609) 265-3788 or access www.co.burlington.nj.us/departments/sheriff /community/index.htm.
   Drop off locations in the area include: Bordentown City Municipal Building, Bordentown Township Municipal Building, Florence Family Fitness, Florence Post Office and Shop Rite of Bordentown.