Sheriff's department begins food and toy drive

The Ocean County Sheriff's Department is getting an early start on its annual collection of unwrapped toys, gifts and nonperishable food for needy families for the holidays, in anticipation of an increased need for assistance this year. According to Sheriff Bill Polhemus, the department has already received more than 150 requests for assistance, an increase from the number received last year at this time. Over 1,200 Ocean County children in need received gifts last year.

The department honors all requests for children from infants to 12 years of age. Those interested in making donations can contact Mary McHugh at (732) 929-4756.