NORTH BRUNSWICK, N.J. — The holidays will soon be here, and Middlesex County’s 4-H teens want to make it a happy season for all families, especially the less fortunate.
For the past 20 years, the Middlesex County 4-H program has hosted Project GIFT, which provides a free day of holiday shopping for needy families in Middlesex County.
More than 70 4-H teens assist each year with the fundraising for and running of the event. 4-H members also donate many hours of their time throughout the year to help raise funds and plan each aspect of this holiday gathering.
Although the Project GIFT event itself is not open to the public, you, too, can get in the giving spirit and join 4-H’s efforts. Those looking to donate new toys, clothing, games, gift cards and other items for children ages infant to 18 can do so from now until Dec. 8.
Donations can be dropped off at the Middlesex County Administration Building, 1st Floor, 75 Bayard St. in New Brunswick as well as at the County’s Extension office, located in Davidson’s Mill Pond Park, 42 Riva Ave., South Brunswick.
“Project GIFT is an event we’re always happy to host,” said Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios. “I am so proud that this incredible event is approaching its 20th successful year, and I hope that it will continue to brighten the holidays for years to come.”
“I’d like to commend all the members of 4-H for taking the time and effort to give other families a great holiday,” said Freeholder Kenneth Armwood, Chair of the Business Development and Education Committee. “I know these young men and women have been working hard, and that their efforts will be enjoyed by all those participating in the event.”
For more information, call the Middlesex County 4-H office at 732-398-5261.
— Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County.