Project Help putting 'Toys on the Bus'

The Toys on the Bus go to boys and girls for Christmas

Four years ago, this toy drive began as a gift to the children of local veterans. In conjunction with the Center for Prevention’s Military Family Night Out, Project Help began the mission to assure that no child would wake up on Christmas morning without presents under the tree.

The task on hand was to get enough toys to assure that goal was achieved...and it was.

“A massive effort took place and the toys flowed in. We were overjoyed with the generosity of the West Milford American Legion, who led the effort of collecting the gifts“, said Sandy Mitchell, Executive Director of Project Help.

This is the fourth year doing this for the veterans of Sussex County but this year, in addition to a drop location at 55 Bank St., in Sussex, the Project Help Mobile Closet will be at the Newton Walmart each Saturday. The Mobile Closet is a converted school bus used to help veterans with clothing and accessories as well as toiletries. So adding this extra service was a no brainer.

When you get to Walmart in Newton, look for the giant bus with a giant flag scrolling across the sides and a giant bald eagle imposed on the flag.

“We will be accepting unwrapped toys for kids from toddler to teen”, said Mitchell. There will be a joint party with the Center for Prevention, the veteran families and Project Help where the parents can shop in private until it’s all gone. There are no limits. The little kids are easy to buy for but the teens can be a bit of a challenge, so think about things like makeup, hair décor, nail products, jewelry, books and so forth.