Haddon Twp. Toy Drive Benefits Needy Children

Kate Burns knows the joy and pain of Haddon Township's annual holiday toy drive.

"It's very stressful worrying if we're going to have enough gifts for everyone," said Burns, the township's head of the business improvement district and civic celebrations. "These families aren't asking for Xboxes or other expensive toys. The parents want socks, coats, pajamas and underwear."

The drive is sponsored by the township commissioners, but Burns is one of two people to get confidential calls from needy families to arrange distribution of the gifts, which also include a substantial amount of unwrapped toys.

"The joy these families get from these gifts is tremendous," Burns said. "Last year we helped over 65 families."

Another hard part of the drive is trying to find help for families that don't live in Haddon Township.

"I usually take their number and try to direct them to help in their towns," Burns said. "If we have anything left over I'll call some of them to give them a gift."

Burns said she is not aware of another program like theirs in surrounding towns. Other towns sponsor toy drives but don't directly distribute proceeds, she said.

Here's how you can help:

Mayor Teague, Commissioner Foley and Commissioner Dougherty are once again sponsoring a toy and food drive this holiday season for families in need. Donations  may be dropped off beginning Monday, Nov. 19th at any of the following locations and before Dec. 14th: Haddon Township Municipal Building, Annex Building, Westmont Fire Station and Haddon Township Schools.

If you are a family in need, please contact Betty Band at bband@haddontwp.com or 856-854-1176 ext. 4125 or Kate Burns at kburns@haddontwp.com, ext. 4194.

This season, please remember those among us who are in need.  Last year more than 65 families enjoyed a holiday to remember!