Community pours out donations to Family Promise

Newton — Donations came pouring in this year as Family Promise of Sussex County got ready to host their annual holiday party for past and present guests of the homeless shelter program.

Organizations within the county went above and beyond the spirit of the holidays by organizing and collecting essential items that families need to sustain a modest lifestyle.

Families at the party enjoyed holiday crafts, dinner sponsored by Dominick’s, a visit from Santa, and everyone who attended the party left with gifts that were donated to Family Promise.

There's a special thanks given to Stillwater Girls Scout Troop #5678, who donated 25 jars of prepared dry soup mix in mason jars, the Pajama Program who brought over 100 pairs of brand new children’s pajamas, and Josh Bennett, teacher and student council advisor at Hardyston Middle School, who organized a program called “Stockings for the Homeless” where he reached out to Sparta High School, Vernon High School, Frankford Elementary School, Sussex Tech Key Club, and Northern Hills Academy to ask for donations of filled stockings, toys, and hygiene products.

Over 15 boxes of donations were delivered to Family Promise in response to the outreach Bennett organized within the county.

“The annual holiday party at Family Promise strengthens the bond our families have with one another and creates an atmosphere where everyone is relaxed and feels at home,” said Pamela Ryerson, Executive Director at Family Promise. “Our success lies within the gracious hearts of the community and volunteers who believe in our program and the difference we make in the lives of our families.”

Family Promise is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to serving the homeless population in Sussex County. The agency’s mission is to provide shelter and meals, work with families to overcome barriers to self-sufficiency, and advocate for local affordable housing solutions. It's commitment through continued outreach services provide support to our families even after they have left our program. Family Promise operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing homeless families with 10,000 meals and 5,000 shelter beds each year.

For more information call 973-579-1180 or visit www.helpnjhomeless.org.