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The “Sponsor a Wreath” fund raiser to provide a hand up for Washington Township residents will begin again this December, commencing with the hanging of the Wreaths on Saturday, December 5th. The wreaths displayed on our white fences continue to be a beautiful tradition in Long Valley and are so much more than holiday decorations. They are a symbol of neighbors helping neighbors. Conceived 6 years ago by neighbors Sam & Laurie Aiken and Harvey Ort, Jr. as a way to help residents in need, “Sponsor a Wreath” has realized growing support and participation from the community. Many people and local organizations provide a great deal of time and effort to support this worthy cause. The Washington Township Library ran a very successful “Food for Fines” campaign. Both the Garden Club and Newcomer’s Club make bows for the wreaths. Food drives are conducted through our schools, local churches, Curves of Chester, Weight Watchers of Long Valley and Chester, and Washington Township Scouts. Local businesses sponsor wreaths and provide donation points. The Highlanders of Humanity group from West Morris Central High School assists the Food Pantry year round with distributions, stocking shelves, and providing financial support through monies raised from the Semi-Formal Dance. The Interfaith Community Outreach for Washington Township Area (ICOWTA) is a coalition of 10 local churches which administers the Residents Emergency Fund and Food Pantry housed in the Long Valley Presbyterian Church on Bartley Rd. They provide one-time financial help and supplemental food year round to Washington Township residents who have been referred by clergy, school officials, and social service agencies. This year ICOWTA will have supplied almost 4500 bags of groceries and assisted over 70 families! This year we have seen an increase in need in light of the current economic situation. ICOWTA is grateful for the continuing support from our community for this vital program. The caring and generosity of our townspeople is what the wreaths symbolize. Keep that in mind as you enjoy the scene of all those wreaths this holiday season, and join us by sponsoring a wreath for $20. The may be sponsored in dedication to, or in memory of a loved one, if you wish. All donations go to benefit the Emergency Fund and the Washington Township Food Pantry.
During December, donation envelopes are also located at Ort Farms, Long Valley Pharmacy, Peapack-Gladstone Bank, Hoffman’s True Value Hardware, Plut’s Christmas Tree Farm, Schooley’s Mtn. General Store, Greenway Flowers, and the Washington Township Library. IMPORTANT DATES- PLEASE JOIN US: Dec. 4th Tie bows on wreaths at Ort Farms 5-7 PM Dec. 5th. Hanging of Wreaths starts at Valley View Chapel 9:00 - 11:30 AM The form may be filled out on line and then
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