New Jersey is a place where community truly thrives, and this spirit of generosity and mutual support is evident in the wonderful initiatives happening across the state. From helping families prepare for the new school year to offering sustainable ways to refresh your wardrobe, our local communities are constantly finding innovative ways to support one another.
Refresh Your Wardrobe, Sustainably: The Keyport Free Clothing Swap
Looking to clear out your closet and maybe find some new-to-you treasures? Head over to 3BR Distillery in Keyport on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, for their monthly Free Clothing Swap! This fantastic event offers a unique opportunity to refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime. The concept is simple and brilliant: bring along the gently used clothes you no longer want, enjoy a refreshing cocktail, and browse through what others have brought. It’s a fun and sustainable way to update your style, embracing the circular economy right here in New Jersey.
What makes this event even more special is its commitment to giving back. Any items that aren’t claimed during the swap will be donated to a local women’s shelter, ensuring that clothes find new homes and help those in need. Just remember, table space is limited, so it’s a “first come, first served” situation – arrive early to secure your spot and participate in this wonderful community exchange! This initiative is a perfect example of how small, local efforts can have a big impact, benefiting both individuals and the wider community. It’s a testament to the compassionate spirit that makes New Jersey “The Humane State.” You can explore more about how New Jersey supports its residents and various compassionate causes by visiting our section on The Humane State.
Equipping Future Minds: Burlington County’s School Supply Drive
As summer rolls on and the new school year approaches, many families face the financial strain of purchasing essential school supplies. Thankfully, Burlington County officials, in partnership with New Jersey Senator Troy Singleton and the Burlington County Sheriff’s Office, are stepping up to ensure every child has what they need to succeed.
From Monday, July 7th, through Wednesday, August 13th, 2025, these dedicated offices will be collecting donations of new backpacks, school supplies, and other back-to-school items for low-income families across Burlington County. “Purchasing all the supplies students need can be a financial hardship for some families under normal economic circumstances, but this summer we’re seeing prices for clothing, electronics and other classroom essentials increase,” noted Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel. She emphasized that the current economic conditions make this year’s drive even more critical.
Senator Singleton echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of providing students with the tools they need to thrive. Last summer, this collaborative effort successfully distributed over 500 backpacks filled with supplies, making a tangible difference for hundreds of children. This year, the goal is to surpass that number and help even more students start the academic year on the right foot. “We’re hoping to surpass last year’s donations and help even more students start the school year right,” said Burlington County Sheriff James Kostoplis.
If you’re able to contribute, your donations of new items would be incredibly impactful. Suggested items include:
- Backpacks
- Calculators
- Binders
- Paper
- Folders
- Notebooks and composition books
- Pencils and pencil cases
- Pens
- Crayons, markers, and highlighters
- Erasers
- Small hand sanitizers
- Lunch boxes
- Scissors
- Index cards
Donations are conveniently accepted at all Burlington County branch libraries, the lobbies of Burlington County government buildings, and at Senator Singleton’s legislative office at 400 North Church Street, Suite 260, Moorestown. Your generosity can directly impact a child’s educational journey and help alleviate some of the burdens faced by local families.
These initiatives in Keyport and Burlington County are just a snapshot of the many ways New Jersey communities are working together to foster a supportive and caring environment for all residents. It’s a reminder that even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, strengthening the fabric of our state.