News from Project Self-Sufficiency

The Sussex County New Jersey Youth Corps recently awarded high school diplomas to students at a celebratory graduation ceremony at Project Self-Sufficiency.   The 16-week program offers education and training in preparation for the high school equivalency exam.   Commemorative photos, along with caps and gowns, were provided by Project Self-Sufficiency Board member Kathy Esposito and Legacy Studios.  Students from the program’s most recent graduating class will continue their education, join the workforce or enter the military.   New Jersey Youth Corps Graduates Celebrate their Success “This innovative program offers young adults who might not have been successful in a traditional high school setting the opportunity to earn a high school diploma, get on-the-job training and receive essential support as they enter the next stage in their life,” explains Deborah Berry-Toon, Executive Director of Project Self-Sufficiency.   “We are proud to have b...

Project Self-Sufficiency is seeking donations of new and gently-used formal wear, including prom dresses, bridesmaids’ dresses, gowns for mothers-of-the-bride, evening bags, jewelry, wraps and shawls, as well as shoes in good condition for display in the agency’s annual “Sister-to-Sister” Prom Shop.   Dresses must be dry cleaned and on a hanger.   In the shop, which is housed on Project Self-Sufficiency’s Newton campus, gowns and accessories are displayed in a boutique-like setting, and girls are invited to select shoes, wraps and jewelry to complement their dress.   Volunteers are needed to assist teen girls with selecting gowns and accessories during the prom shop, which will take place at Project Self-Sufficiency, March 30 th – April 4 th . “The community has been particularly supportive of the Sister-to-Sister Prom Shop every year, and we are fortunate to have a large collection of beautiful gowns and accessories in our collection,” commented Deborah ...

Volunteer Gardeners Needed Project Self-Sufficiency is seeking volunteers to assist with planting, maintenance and harvesting of fruits and vegetables from the community gardens at the agency’s Newton campus.   Volunteers would work alongside seasoned horticultural professionals on Monday – Thursday mornings, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.   Volunteers must be at least 17 years of age.   No experience is required. Project Self-Sufficiency’s Newton campus is home to numerous vegetable gardens which bear all kinds of crops for consumption by the agency’s low-income participants.   During the summer, hundreds of potted tomato plants also wreath the sidewalks throughout the 5-acre campus.   Produce is harvested daily and offered to agency participants as they enter the lobby at Project Self-Sufficiency.   Baskets are also provided for families to cart the bounty home and share with their children.   Participants are given tips on cooking and...