We’re honored to share an update from CAREing for Children—who we are, what your support just made possible, and what’s next as we head into our busiest season.
Who we are
CAREing for Children began years ago with encouragement from members of the Ocean County Business Association, and today we operate as an independent, volunteer-run nonprofit serving families right here in Ocean County.
Our mission is simple: turn community generosity into tangible help for kids—holiday toys and food in December, and stocked backpacks in August.
What your support achieved at this year’s Golf Classic
Thanks to our sponsors, donors, golfers, and volunteers, the Marty Aronow Charity Golf Classic raised $32,910. After event expenses of $10,400, we’re directing $22,550 to purchase toys, food, and essentials for local children. That’s meaningful fuel for the work ahead—thank you.
How we stretch every dollar
Because we’re 100% volunteer-run, donations go directly to kids and families. We buy wholesale to maximize value and focus on practical items: durable toys (no batteries required), STEM kits for older kids, and pantry staples that partner organizations tell us are in demand—this year, cooking oil is high on the list. For teens, gift cards (Target, Walmart, Sephora, Ulta, GameStop) help us meet specific needs; smaller denominations let us serve more youth.
December distribution: where generosity becomes groceries and gifts
Our December distribution day is the heart of our year. Community partners arrive by appointment to pick up toys and food and deliver them directly to local families. The first pickups begin at 9:00 a.m. on December 7. Volunteers arrive earlier to sort, stage, and load. If you’ve never seen it, come help—it’s an uplifting, well-oiled effort that shows exactly how your support lands in the community.
Year-round partners
We work with a wide network across Ocean County—food pantries, houses of worship, social-service agencies, and community groups—to make sure help reaches the right households. Their feedback guides our purchasing and ensures nothing goes to waste.
What’s next
- Holiday season (now through December): We’re collecting gift cards for teens and finalizing bulk toy and food orders.
- Distribution Day (Dec 7): Volunteer with us to sort, stage, and load.
- Super Bowl pool (winter): Fun boards at multiple price points will jump-start next year’s fund.
- Next Golf Classic (planning begins January): Early sponsors, raffle donors, and committee volunteers make a huge difference. If we raised $32K in just a few weeks, imagine what a longer runway can do.
How you can help today
- Donate funds: Monetary gifts let us buy the exact items partners request at negotiated pricing.
- Give gift cards for teens: Target, Walmart, Sephora, Ulta, GameStop—$25 cards are ideal.
- Volunteer on Dec 7: Join the team that sorts, stages, and loads.
- Sponsor or plan the next Golf Classic: Pledge early support, donate auction items, or join the committee.
From all of us at CAREing for Children: thank you for standing with local kids. Your support—on the course, in the checkout line, and on distribution day—keeps families seen, supported, and hopeful.