Although the holiday season seemed very different this year, one thing remained the same: the philanthropic spirit of our Monmouth County neighbors. The past year has proven to be a difficult one, especially for fundraising, yet that didn’t stop Hope for Children Foundation, NJ (HFCF) from providing countless families with a holiday to remember. This year, HFCF’s season of giving was done in a “VERY” Covid-safe way, ensuring that everyone was careful and that all in need were addressed.

HFCF is grateful to their generous donors for always stepping up and joining in their mission to help the children in the community. In addition to individual donors, there are always local businesses that get involved.

This holiday season, Home Away from Home Academy and Livoti’s Market donated hundreds of toys to HFCF. Saint Mary’s (SVDP) donated new pajama’s for 35 families. Community Appliance of Middletown celebrated the season by giving a new washing machine to a single mom of 3 who has been without.

Margo & Sophie Vallone drop toys to Maria Graminski at The Valerie Center at Monmouth Medical.

“During the spirit of giving, our donors certainly went above and beyond,” said Karen Hinds, Co-Founder and Executive Board Member of HFCF. “We have so many generous donors that not only opened their wallets, but took the time to go out and shop for families in order to make sure there were happy faces this holiday season.”

HFCF’s Kristie Tapolow is a social worker for the Middletown school system and knows too well how many children in our community go without. Kristie has worked alongside HFCF and the Raine Foundation making it her mission to organize matches bringing donors together with families in need. 

An amazing example of paying it forward. Volunteer and HFCF past honoree Tori Lee delivered toys for those in need with Maggie Halsey, both of Ocean Township. Tori was honored by HFCF in 2009 during her battle with Pediatric Cancer.

Kristie, who has 2 children of her own, said she can’t imagine a child waking up Christmas morning without a tree, none the less a gift. “I feel blessed for all that I have been able to provide my children. I want the same for all kids out there, especially in our own backyard.”

With the holidays coming to an end, it’s a special feeling knowing that there are children out there that have experienced the magic of the holiday season because of HFCF. Although the lights and decorations will be out of sight, their memories will be forever and knowing that is what keeps HFCF going strong!

If you are interested in becoming a part of HFCF or donating to make a difference in the life of a child, please visit www.hfcf.org or email us at hfcfnj@gmail.com.

About HFCF

HFCF is a registered 501(c)(3) committed to enhancing the lives of the children in our community. We are a volunteer based organization that has raised almost $3 million, in which 100% has gone direct to those in need.

Whether it’s child suffering from a medical condition, an under-privileged child, or an organization that makes a difference in the life of a child, we have seen and done it all. HFCF is committed to bettering the lives of those in our community, one child at a time.

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