By: Richard L. Smith
In a heartwarming display of community solidarity, the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, alongside various community leaders, participated in a significant local outreach initiative.
The event, held on Wednesday, February 28th, in Egg Harbor City and orchestrated by Pastor Lou Stragala of Church by the Bay, saw the distribution of essential items to those in need.
More than 200 coats and hundreds of other vital clothing items such as socks, hats, gloves, shoes, hygiene bags, and blankets were handed out to individuals and families facing hardships.
In a generous act of kindness, the Pic a Lilli Inn of Shamong catered to the community's hunger by providing over 235 meals to the hungry, including senior citizens and the needy.
Adding to the comprehensive support offered during the event, personnel from the Superior Court were present to provide assistance and information, resulting in 7 people receiving help with expungements, 3 of which were processed immediately.
In an effort to combat the ongoing opioid crisis, hundreds of doses of naloxone were also distributed, a crucial step towards saving lives by reversing potentially fatal overdoses.
The event saw the collaboration of numerous organizations and entities, including the NJ State Police, Project Rise, Egg Harbor City PD and Public Works, Wimberg Funeral Home, Kramer Beverage, and the Honor Society of Cedar Creek HS, among others who donated and supported the cause.
Pastor Lou Stragala highlighted the importance of such community initiatives, stating, “When we’re able to come together as a community of caring and compassionate people, we can provide a moment of joy and comfort to those of our society who need it most.”
Prosecutor William Reynolds praised the event's impact on fostering community engagement, noting, “Through acts of compassion like distributing food, clothes, shoes, hats, gloves, and naloxone, the Atlantic County prosecutor's office fosters a sense of community engagement, building trust through tangible expressions of care and support.”
This event not only provided immediate aid to those in need but also reinforced the strong bonds of community and the shared commitment to uplift and support one another in times of need.