UNITED WAY OF ESSEX AND WEST HUDSON REACHES OUT TO COMMUNITY TO “HAVE A HEART” BY CONTRIBUTING TO ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE

Newark, NJ (November 30, 2011) — For the tenth consecutive year, The United Way of Essex and West Hudson (UWEWH) is conducting a holiday toy drive to help families in need. UWEWH is asking for those that can to “Have a Heart” and donate a new, unwrapped toy, doll, book or game during the annual collection drive. Donors can also send in a monetary donation and UWEWH will buy the toys on their behalf.

The United Way of Essex and West Hudson purchases toys and stockings to be stuffed, and collects new toys to distribute to families in need throughout Essex and West Hudson Counties. The Toy Drive also welcomes donations of winter clothing, including new coats, hats, scarves and gloves to ensure that local families can be well protected against the brutal elements of winter.

Families that benefit from the donations are screened for eligibility by the United Way of Essex and West Hudson. UWEWH, also welcome contributions from corporations, service organizations, community groups, clubs or small businesses and will assist them in setting up a collection drive.

Through your support, the lives of real people are changed for the better as we work together to build stronger communities in our region.  Annually, UWEWH delivers toys to about 200 families during our Toy Drive, which impacts the lives of more than 400 children.  By opening your heart this year, you will make a difference in your own community.

This year’s United Way of Essex and West Hudson Toy Drive runs from Friday, November 25, 2011 through Friday, December 16, 2011. Individuals may drop off donations of toys, or mail a check payable to United Way of Essex and West Hudson to our offices at 303 Washington Street, Newark, New Jersey.

For those corporations or groups interested in setting up an onsite collection, we ask that you contact us at 973-854-2221 to make arrangements. We are eager to help you set up your collection drive and will provide promotional flyers and drop-off boxes if needed.

About The United Way of Essex and West Hudson

Founded in 1923, the United Way of Essex and West Hudson is a non-profit organization that seeks to address the root causes of community concerns by aligning resources to best meet the needs of individuals, children and families through its service area annually.  We serve a population of nearly 700,000 in thirteen communities in Essex and Hudson County.  For more information about or how to get involved, visit our website www.unitedwayessex.org