Boat Filled with Toys Docks at Project Self-Sufficiency

Branchville business owner Sherri Cecchini and her staff recently towed a 2024 24’ Nautique GS24 boat packed with toys and gift cards to Project Self-Sufficiency. The boat’s arrival is part of the annual “Stuff the Boat” initiative on behalf of the Season of Hope Toy Drive. The tenth annual Stuff the Boat effort was coordinated by Off Shore Marine in conjunction with members of the fire departments in members of the Branchville Hose Company, the Blue Ridge Rescue Squad, Frankford Township Fire Department, the Kiwanis Club of Sussex, Royal Buick GMC of Sussex, Sussex Fire and Emergency Medical Service, the Ladies Auxiliary of the Sussex Fire Department, and the Wanderer’s Car Club.

“We are exceptionally grateful for this community’s steadfast commitment to our neighbors in need. This ongoing collaboration between a local business and area first responders perfectly demonstrates the true spirit of giving during the holiday season,” commented Deborah Berry-Toon, Executive Director of Project Self-Sufficiency. “Thousands of families in our area will be helped by this initiative.”

“This year marks the tenth annual Stuff the Boat collection for Project Self-Sufficiency’s Season of Hope Toy Drive, and we surpassed our expectations, thanks to the generosity of this community,” remarked Off Shore Marine owner Sherri Cecchini, who was inspired to launch the effort after dropping off a bag of toys and touring the non-profit agency. “We are invested in our community; we have built our business and raised our family here. Putting goodness into the world is the right thing to do, and if we each contribute where and what we can, together we can make a real difference.”

The Season of Hope Toy Drive is coordinated by Project Self-Sufficiency to benefit thousands of children in Sussex and Northern Morris and Warren counties. Toys, gift cards and monetary donations will be gratefully received at Project Self-Sufficiency, 127 Mill Street in Newton, Monday – Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. or Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. To donate online, or for more information, visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org or call 973-940-3500.