Toms River Elks Festival of Trees Raises Money For Nonprofits

TOMS RIVER, NJ — The Toms River Elks Lodge 1875 is holding its annual Festival of Trees, with decorated trees helping to raise money for local charities.

Twenty nonprofits have decorated trees to represent who they are and what they do for the Toms River community.

"Every tree is unique and beautiful. The stories behind these amazing organizations will touch your heart," organizers said.

Donations can be made Monday and Tuesday between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. On Thursday, Dec. 15, the Elks will hold their annual Festival of Trees Gala. The family-friendly event is open to the public and visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite nonprofit's Christmas tree by submitting a cash donation.

The top organizations will receive large cash prizes from the Toms River Elks Lodge 1875 and 100 percent of the donations that they received. There will be raffles, 50/50s, live entertainment from the Ocean County Jazz Band; Garden State Philharmonic Youth Orchestra; Oceanaires; Church of the Nazarene, and the B-Flats.

There will be complimentary refreshments, including an indoor s'mores and hot chocolate bar!

If you cannot make it to the event, feel free to contact your favorite nonprofit and contribute ahead of time.

Come out and celebrate all of these wonderful nonprofit agencies at the 3rd Annual Festival of Trees!

The following nonprofit agencies already are participating:

• Military Family Support 360 Project
• Boy Scouts Troup 50
• Run For Dennis
• New Beginnings Pet Rescue
• Merlin’s Kids
• Garden State Philharmonic Youth Orchestra
• Hope Sheds Light
• CASA Of Ocean County
• Ocean County YMCA
• Seer Farms
• People’s Pantry
• Grandmother’s Cupboard
• Loaves and Fishes
• Ocean Harbor House
• New Horizons Autism
• Humane Society/Popcorn Park
• POAC
• Specialized Children’s Hospital
• Family Support Center SIBSHOP
• Ocean Arc
• Deborah

Photo via Toms River Elks Lodge Facebook page