Somerset County 4-H Inspires Essential Workers

Press release from the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Somerset County:

May 18, 2020

With essential workers constantly putting their lives on the line for their community, the Somerset County 4-H Crazy Frog Hoppers Double Dutch Club decided to pledge their hands to greater service by finding a way to both motivate and show appreciation for essential front line workers.

Club member Veronica Dryl from Bridgewater, New Jersey stated, "I was happy to be able to give ... to our First Responders. They have been working hard to keep us safe during the pandemic and deserved to be treated."

After collaborating virtually, the club began working together to donate what they called, "Hero Bags." After purchasing supplies to contribute themselves, the club was also able to gather donations online via social media.

While practicing good social distancing, the club worked together in small numbers to package 235 Hero Bags that included a bottle of water, a snack, and a motivational message that would provide a moment of pause and encouragement for essential workers.

"Even though it seemed like a small gesture, the appreciation showed by our front-line workers and first responders was overwhelming. It gave me a real insight into all the work they are doing to keep us safe, and it was amazing to be able to do something positive for them," said club member Eliza Rothenburger of Neshanic Station, New Jersey.

After all packing was completed, the Hero Bags were donated and delivered to seven different locations within the community: Robert Wood Johnson - Somerset (ER Night Shift), Bradley Garden Rescue Squad, Somerville Rescue Squad, Flagtown Fire Station, Somerset County Communications Center (Dispatch Workers / 911), Bridgewater Police, and Robert Wood Johnson - New Brunswick.

The club members were able to find a new level of respect for essential and emergency workers, as well as the value that community service and volunteering can provide. The essential workers were extremely proud of the youth effort and thankful for the Hero Bags they received.

"Huge thank you to Somerset County 4-H Crazy Frog Hoppers Double Dutch 4-H Club for helping fuel the ER staff! What a great group of young ladies," stated the Robert Wood Johnson of Somerset staff.

Find out more about the Crazy Frog Hoppers project, visit the Somerset County 4-H website, or follow along on social media @SCNJ4H.

This press release was produced by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Somerset County. The views expressed here are the author's own.