The holidays may be over, but many families will recall happy memories in difficult times thanks to the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and the Salvation Army. This year, Girl Scout staff and volunteers donated more than 300 items to the Salvation Army during the holiday season including toys, boots, coats, clothing and gift certificates.

“It was important for us to come together and do what we could to help ,” said Susan H. McClure, chief executive officer, Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore. “As Girl Scouts, girls learn the importance of giving back to others and the community. Working with the Salvation Army lets girls put that lesson into action.”

The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore also donated almost 100 loaves of homemade bread given out during the Salvation Army's holiday dinner.  With help from the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and many other local organizations, the Salvation Army provided Thanksgiving meals to almost 700 people and Christmas presents to approximately 1,400 children.

“The Salvation Army does a wonderful job inspiring hope,” said Kathy Jones, Salvation Army donation coordinator, Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore. “We were happy we could help them assist families looking to provide a sense of normalcy in their lives and the lives of their children.”

For more information about Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, call (800) 785-2090 or visit www.girlscoutsjs.org.