TOMS RIVER – For the second straight year, the United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties’ Warmest Wishes Winter Coat Drive benefited Toms River Regional Schools students.
The nonprofit donated hundreds of winter coats to students at South Toms River, Cedar Grove, and Walnut Street Elementary Schools.
“Thank you to United Way for their generous donation of 75 coats,” said South Toms River Principal Dennis Holzapfel. “They will definitely be keeping our students warm this winter.”
The coats were picked up yesterday by district head of custodial services Harry Staples and his colleague Mike Wilkoski, who were treated to free coffee and donuts at the UPS pickup facility in Tinton Falls. The duo then distributed the coats to each school, to the delight of staff and students.
“Our school counselor, ESL teachers and school nurses were thrilled to serve as Santa’s elves to deliver these much needed coats to our students,” said Cedar Grove Principal Stacey Monetti. “Once again, UWMOC’s partnership is enriching the lives of our young ‘Proud Patriots!’”
On its website, UWMOC announced that its 2021 Warmest Wishes Coat Drive surpassed its goal and donated more than 3,300 coats to area children.
“The Walnut Street Elementary School community appreciates the generosity of the United Way,” said Principal Kevin McCann. “Our families truly appreciate all the Warmest Wishes coat drive does to help keep our children warm this winter.”
The district sincerely thanks its community partner for their ongoing generosity.
