United Way of Monmouth County Announces "Warmest Wishes" Clothing Drive

United Way of Monmouth County announces the start of its “Warmest Wishes” drive for children in need in Monmouth County. The organization is collecting coats, hats, gloves, scarves, boots, socks and underwear that are new with tags to distribute to children attending local schools. The Warmest Wishes drive was designed to work in conjunction with the education component of United Way’s Community Impact Agenda, which aims to close the gap in academic achievement and help young people reach their potential.

“Through our relationships with a number of school districts in Monmouth County, we know that lower-income children often come to school without the proper clothing to endure the winter weather,” says Timothy Hearne, President and CEO of United Way of Monmouth County. “This can lead to poor attendance rates and a decrease in learning potential. Our drive is intended to provide these children with the clothing they need to be able to go to school and focus on their education.”

United Way will be hosting events to collect donations at the Target on Route 9 in Manalapan on Friday, December 5th and Saturday, December 6th between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Donations will also be accepted at the United Way office in Farmingdale and at the Customer Service desk at Monmouth Mall in Eatontown until December 4th. Pick-up dates can be arranged for organizations who wish to make a large donation.

“Our Preschool Program has been fortunate to receive clothing donations from United Way of Monmouth County in past years,” says Bonnie Walling, School Psychologist for the Keansburg School District Preschool Program. “Toileting accidents sometimes happen, and underwear is needed so that our nurses can offer replacements when children don’t have spare clothing. We also see children without winter coats and accessories, or with ill-fitting, stained or torn outerwear. We’re grateful to United Way for coordinating a drive that will help us meet these needs.”

To participate in the Warmest Wishes drive for children’s winter clothing or for more information, please contact Kaarina Romero at 732-938-5988, ext. 2042. To learn more about United Way of Monmouth County’s Community Impact initiatives on education, income and health and its continuing work in rebuilding Monmouth County after Superstorm Sandy, visit www.uwmonmouth.org.