Jersey Shore Santa will bring holidays to storm survivors

Operation Jersey Shore Santa, a nonprofit organization, has set its sights on bringing Christmas and the holidays to the children of Jersey Shore families in the aftermath of Sandy. The organization was created by Jackie O’Leary, who is the owner of Chubby Penguin Parties and 10-year veteran of the St. Justin’s Christmas Ministry.

“In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, many families at the Jersey Shore lost their belongings and their homes,” said O’Leary. “Operation Santa was created to bring the holidays to as many affected families as possible and allow their children to celebrate the holidays as usual.”

The Operation Jersey Shore Santa Board consists of Jackie O’Leary, Stephanie Frederick, Dan O’Leary, Marcy Roemer, Sheryl Kish and Sandy Foley, as well as more than 80 volunteers, including New Jersey’s very own Santa Ray, “The Jersey Shore Santa.”

“So many wonderful people and businesses have already jumped on board to help in every possible way, including providing gifts, collection boxes, storage space, trucks for deliveries and manual labor,” said O’Leary.

Operation Jersey Shore Santa will be collecting gifts and donations through Dec. 15. Deliveries will occur from Dec. 17 to Dec. 23.

For additional information, including drop-off locations, how to apply for help, or to find out how to get involved, call Jackie O’Leary at 732-701-7012.