News from Project Self-Sufficiency

Over the weekend, thousands of families received free toys and gifts for their children at the Season of Hope Toy Shop operated at Project Self-Sufficiency.   The effort involved hundreds of volunteers who assisted patrons, provided music and helped with traffic.   Local law enforcement officials from the state and county joined forces in a unique collaboration to ensure the safety of volunteers and patrons, noted Newton Police Chief Mike Richards, who oversaw the coordinated effort. “Over the years, the toy shop has grown and there have been issues with traffic, access and security,” explains Richards.   “We started staging vehicles at Sussex County Community College and letting them down 10 – 12 at a time.   We have law enforcement officers on site, from 6am – 9pm on Friday, and 6am – 3pm on Saturday.   This is more than the Newton police department can provide.   Since there are residents from all over Sussex County who are coming here, I ...

A free seminar about careers in the fields of law and law enforcement will be offered to teens and adults on Wednesday, September 27 th , from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. at Project Self-Sufficiency.     Newton Chief of Police Mike Richards will be joined by the Honorable Lorraine C. Parker, J.A.D., retired, and Sussex County Community College Director of Admissions Todd Poltersdorf for a discussion of the background, education and the skills necessary for success.   Questions from the audience will be welcome.   “Becoming You:   Legal and Law Enforcement Careers” will explore the wide range of employment options including police officer, forensic science technician, attorney, courtroom clerk, judge, paralegal, and more.   The seminar is free and open to teens and adults, but registration is required.   Interested participants are encouraged to call 973-940-3500 or 844-807-3500 to register.   Project Self-Sufficiency is located at 127 Mill Street in New...