National Chaplains Association and Ocean County Law Enforcement Agencies Join Forces to Distribute Toys to The Needy

Toms River, NJ – As part of its mission to instill light and joy in the communities they serve, Ocean County law enforcement officials gathered at Steals & Deals in Toms River last Thursday to collect gifts that will be distributed to needy children across the county.

Arranged by the National Chaplains Association, the organization that works tireless around the country to cultivate relationships between communities and their local law enforcement agencies, the toy drive brought together officials and members of over 20 local, county and state agencies, including the Ocean County Department of Corrections, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department, NJ State Police, and numerous municipal police departments, all of whom had one mission: sharing happiness and love with the communities they cherish.

The toys were sponsored by Steals & Deals, and local businesses and residents. Wellpoint NJ Community Health Care sponsored the event.

A Wellpoint representative said, “I want to thank the NCA and the law enforcement agencies for allowing us to be part of this great deed. We love making sure that children are not only healthy, but also happy.”

Ocean County Warden Joe Valenti said, “It was a wonderful day. It is a pleasure to be able to be part of such a good deed and we hope that we will make many children happy with these toys.”

“It is truly exciting to be able to be a part of this, and it is heartwarming to see the community come together to assist those who can use a helping hand,” said Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy. “This toy drive is a perfect representation of the relationship between our officers and the community.”

“We appreciate being asked to be part of this drive and to have an opportunity to give a little back to the community. We are thankful for the great turnout and for the generosity of the businesses and donors, said a representative of the New Jersey State Police.

Lakewood Police Officer Jason Yahr added, “It is always a pleasure to make kids’ lives a bitter happier!”