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New Jersey Resources truck donation to help
Monmouth County children and families

ASBURY PARK—Department of Human Services Commissioner James M. Davy joined New Jersey Resources Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Laurence M. Downes today to announce the company’s donation of a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck to the Calling All Angels program serving Monmouth County children and families.

Started in January, the Calling All Angels program is a community partnership between the Southern Monmouth DYFS office and the United Methodist Church in Manasquan. Through the program, the church donates emergency food, clothing, furniture and other items to needy families identified by DYFS.

“I applaud New Jersey Resources for their efforts in the Monmouth County community,” said Commissioner Davy. “Through their generosity, they are setting an example for other companies to follow.”

Last month, representatives from over 20 New Jersey companies met in a working group led by Mr. Downes and Commissioner Davy to learn how they can support the state’s child welfare reform plan. The meeting highlighted the state’s efforts to expand prevention services in local communities especially in the areas of substance abuse, lack of adequate housing, health care and domestic violence. The goal of these prevention services is to help children and families before abuse and neglect occurs.

“We have a longstanding tradition of supporting our communities and providing resources where our help is needed,” Mr. Downes said. “Nothing is more important than ensuring the safety and well-being of our children. It’s a responsibility we all share and we encourage other companies and foundations to join us in this effort.”

The Calling All Angels program grew out of a community “Giving Tree” started by DYFS’ Christine Bossone and her friend Eloise Knight owner of Eloise’s Cafe in Brielle. Going into its fourth year this holiday season, residents donate gifts for needy children that are listed on two Christmas trees located at Eloise’s Café and Salon Kokopelli in Brielle.

“This is an excellent example of the community coming together for our children,” said Bossone who also coordinates the Calling All Angels program with Lynn Bishop from United Methodist Church.

Earlier this summer when Bossone replied to Commissioner Davy’s weekly email message to employees, she shared the Calling All Angels story and their efforts to secure a truck. Learning of their need, Commissioner Davy reached out to Mr. Downes and New Jersey Resources, who graciously offered to help.

In his weekly email message, Commissioner Davy provides an update on department programs and shares positive stories about the work of department employees he has met along the way. “Everyday DYFS is helping people in the community. Now that we have a truck, we can deliver more items and help more people,” Bossone said.

Based in Wall, New Jersey, NJR’s principal subsidiary, New Jersey Natural Gas, provides natural gas to nearly half a million customers in central and northern New Jersey. NJR’s hallmark is a long-standing tradition of unparalleled care and service to customers and the community.

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