Giving the Gift of Warmth at The HOPE Center

TOMS RIVER, N.J. - Oct. 6, 2025 - PRLog -- As temperatures drop and the winter months approach, The HOPE Center is once again extending a helping hand to local families through its annual Gift of Warmth initiative. This community event provides essential winter items like coats, blankets, hats, gloves, and scarves to ensure no neighbor has to face the cold unprepared.

The Gift of Warmth event will take place on Saturday, November 1st from 11 AM to 2 PM at The HOPE Center at 253 Chestnut Street in Toms River. During the event, volunteers will distribute winter items free of charge to anyone in need. Guests will also be treated to warm meals generously provided by nonprofit partner Operation BBQ Relief.

"Too many families in New Jersey are forced to make difficult choices between putting food on the table and staying warm through the winter," said Amy VanBezooijen, Executive Director of The HOPE Center. "Through the kindness of our community, we can make sure that they do not have to choose."

Community support is vital to making Gift of Warmth possible. Throughout October, The HOPE Center is collecting donations of new or gently used coats, blankets, gloves, hats, and other winter essentials. The Center is open for drop-offs every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 AM to 3 PM. Every contribution goes directly to helping local families stay warm during the harsh winter months.

To learn more, visit houseofhopeocean.org, call The HOPE Center at 732-341-4447, or send an email to info@houseofhopeocean.org.

About The HOPE Center

The HOPE Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization initiated by the Clergy Association of Greater Toms River. Within a place of hope and faith, the mission of The HOPE Center is to serve families in crisis with dignity and compassion, providing for their basic human needs, and striving to empower each person to achieve his or her greatest level of self-sufficiency. Current hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 AM to 3 PM. To reach The HOPE Center, call 732-341-4447. After 4 PM, for emergency services, please call 211.