MANCHESTER – The Manchester Township School District has once again launched its beloved Kevin’s Kids Secret Santa Initiative, marking 43 years of helping local families in need experience the joy of the holiday season.
Unlike traditional toy drives, Kevin’s Kids works directly with families to fulfill specific wish lists, ensuring that each donation meets a child’s or household’s true needs.
“This initiative embodies what makes Manchester such a special place,” said Alex George, Director of Student Personnel Services. “Every year, I am amazed by how our schools and community come together to lift one another up. Kevin’s Kids is proof that Manchester isn’t just a school district. We are a family.”
What began more than four decades ago with one child who went without Christmas has grown into a districtwide effort that now supports over 400 children and 200 Manchester families each year. Founded by Whiting Elementary Principal Kevin Burger and carried on through the dedication of George and a network of volunteers, Kevin’s Kids continues to inspire acts of kindness across the township.
Over the years, the initiative has granted wishes both big and small — from providing a first computer that led a student to study at MIT, to funding driving lessons that gave another student independence. Each year, every child also receives a new winter coat, a warm reminder of community care.
Hundreds of volunteers and local partners make the program possible. Bus drivers donate time to deliver gifts, Public Works employees assemble bikes and toys, and community members gather to wrap presents before they’re quietly delivered to families before Christmas.
Residents can help by donating gift cards, monetary contributions, or wrapping paper. Donations can be dropped off at the Kevin’s Kids “North Pole” at Manchester Township Middle School, 2759 Ridgeway Road, by December 10.
Collection boxes are also available at the following community locations:
- Atlantic Physical Therapy Manchester
- Crossroads Manchester (2002 Route 70)
- Crossroads Whiting (Route 530)
- Dollar General Whiting (across from the firehouse)
- Heritage Restaurant
- IMPAC
- Jimmy C’s Barber Shop
- Manchester Library
- Ocean First Bank – Whiting
- Oliverie Funeral Home
- QuickChek Manchester
- ShopRite of Manchester
- Silverwoods Adult Community
- Whiting Library
- Whiting Station Clubhouse
- Whiting Stop & Shop
- Leisure Ridge
- Lester Glenn Subaru of Toms River
- Manchester Pines
- Kohesion Dance Center
- Evermore Dream Center (The Barn)
For more information about the Kevin’s Kids Secret Santa Initiative, contact Dina Silvestri at dsilvestri@mtschools.org.
