RED BANK – Senator Jennifer Beck and Assemblyman Declan O’Scanlon, R- will be partnering with Operation Jersey Shore Santa to help ensure that families affected by Super Storm Sandy will have a happy holiday season.
The Operation Jersey Shore Santa Board consists of six people: Jackie O’Leary, Stephanie Frederick, Dan O’Leary, Marcy Roemer, Sheryl Kish and Sandy Foley, as well as more than 80 volunteers, including New Jersey’s very own Santa Ray “The Jersey Shore Santa.”
“So many families in our area were hit hard by Sandy,” Beck said. “We really wanted to help put some smiles on their faces during this tough time. The holidays are a time for families and children and I’d hate to think that the kids missed out because of the storms. We’ve seen so much amazing generosity in the wake of Sandy, I really hope that will continue through the holidays.”
Operation Jersey Shore Santa will be collecting gifts and donations through Saturday, Dec. 15. Deliveries will occur from Dec. 17-23. The legislators offered their office as a drop-off point for people looking to make donations.
The office is located on the third floor of 32 Monmouth St.
Potential Santas can also call 732-933-1591 for more information.
“Times are already tough and Sandy has really added a tremendous burden to many families in our districts,” O’Scanlon said. “This is just one way we can help our communities return a little normalcy to the lives of those hit hardest. We hope people will really reach into their hearts and help these families out during a time of year that should be full of nothing but love and laughter.”
For additional information including other drop-off locations, how to apply for help or to find out how to get involved, visit www.operationjerseyshoresanta.org, the organization’s Facebook page or call Jackie O’Leary at 732-701-7012.
