More than 50 children will recieve multiple gifts this year, according to Hertiage Commission chairperson Eileen Liss
The members of the Burlington Township Heritage Commission, undaunted by paper cuts or sharp scissors, are busy wrapping the tower of gifts collected for Burlington Township families.
Setting out last year to instill a new tradition in the township, the Heritage Commission held its first toy drive, and much to the delight of chairperson Eileen Liss, the response by residents was overwhelming.
“Last year, I completely filled up my work truck with toys. We were able to give toys to 25 families, and each child received three toys,” Liss said.
In 2017, Liss and the commission strategized by asking residents to bring unwrapped gifts to the tree lighting on Dec. 11, and to great success. With residents donating gift cards, toys, electronics, clothes and supplies for all ages, the commission was able to exceed last year’s bounty.
“It was perfect weather, and lots of families turned out with their kids,” she added. “We had a pickup truck there for people to put toys and donations in, and we walked away with I don’t even know how much. I would say we collected at least 75 toys, it was a great turnout.”
As she’s shoulder-deep in donations from the tree lighting and those dropped off at the municipal center’s tree of giving, Liss said it’s hard to tell exactly how many gifts they collected. She predicts at least 54 children will receive three gifts each. The commission is looking forward to distributing the toys to families on Dec. 20.
Residents were especially giving this year, Liss said, and they brought in gifts that will help Burlington Township adults, teens and children in need. From gas and WaWa cards to movie tickets, it won’t be just the kids who will be jolly on Christmas.
Though Liss retired from the township’s planning and zoning board this December, she has no plans of stepping away from the commission’s charitable pursuits.
“I started the toy drive last year, and it’s my goal to continue it and help it grow,” she said. “It’s nice to see everyone work together and see that the residents are excited about making it a good Christmas for everyone in town. It really warms your heart.”
The official collection deadline for the toy drive has passed, but residents are still welcome to drop off unwrapped donations to the municipal center before Dec. 25. Despite the copious boxes awaiting delivery to the families, there are always more people to help, Liss said.
