The HOPE Center Announces Fall Events and Initiatives

TOMS RIVER, N.J. - Sept. 29, 2025 - PRLog -- The HOPE Center continues its mission to serve individuals and families in crisis with dignity and compassion, providing for their basic human needs and striving to empower them to achieve their greatest level of self-sufficiency. As we enter the colder months, the nonprofit calls on the community to help work toward their mission at their Fall 2025 events, drives, and campaigns.

Gift of Warmth
Winter can be an especially difficult time for those already struggling. Through the Gift of Warmth Drive, Ocean County individuals and families do not need to face the cold alone. Donate new or gently used blankets, coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and other winter accessories to The HOPE Center's Gift of Warmth Drive to help.

The HOPE Center team will distribute these for free at the Gift of Warmth Event on Saturday, November 1st, from 11 AM to 2 PM, thanks to the generosity of the community, along with warm meals courtesy of Operation BBQ Relief.

Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway
The HOPE Center's Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway ensures local families can gather around the table with gratitude this holiday season. From October 15th through November 13th, the organization will be collecting traditional Thanksgiving meal items, such as whole turkeys, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, to provide to families who may otherwise go without.

Monthly Donation Drives
All year long, The HOPE Center has hosted themed monthly donation drives to address seasonal needs in the community. The autumn months are no different.

• September: Warm drinks (coffee, tea, cocoa)
• October: Hygiene items (shampoo, conditioner, soap)
• November: Holiday cooking essentials (spices and baking items)

If you are unable to give to this year's seasonal drives, even small contributions to the food pantry or monthly donation themes make a meaningful impact.

"Our donation drives all tackle specific seasonal needs in the community," said Amy VanBezooijen, Executive Director of The HOPE Center. "Every little contribution helps give comfort and hope to your neighbors in need."

To learn more, visit houseofhopeocean.org, call The HOPE Center at 732-341-4447, or send an email to info@houseofhopeocean.org.

About The HOPE Center
The HOPE Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization initiated by the Clergy Association of Greater Toms River. Within a place of hope and faith, the mission of The HOPE Center is to serve families in crisis with dignity and compassion, providing for their basic human needs, and striving to empower each person to achieve his or her greatest level of self-sufficiency. Current hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 AM to 3 PM. To reach The HOPE Center, call 732-341-4447. After 4 PM, for emergency services, please call 211.