Sussex County nursing home residents aid victims of hurricanes

NEWTON-Residents of Sussex County Homestead are doing their part to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina. The residents, assisted by the activities department, have organized a project "Care in a Shoebox." Residents decorate empty shoe boxes donated by local stores and Homestead staff. The boxes are then filled with donated items, such as toiletries, non-perishable foods, small stuffed animals, basic clothing, coloring books and crayons, etc. The residents include a note or a drawn picture, which personalizes each shoebox. Filled shoeboxes are being delivered to various donation centers for distribution. The residents have also donated clothing. As one resident put it, "These people have nothing, and I don't need it anymore. They need it more than I do." Many residents have very little but have nevertheless opened their hearts and pocketbooks for this project. They have been deeply saddened by what they have seen on television. This project has given them the opportunity to do something positive. "Care in a Shoebox" will be an ongoing project. Residents also hope to correspond with anyone who will write to them. Homestead residents are also planning a bake sale for Wednesday, Oct. 5. Money collected or donated will be used to purchase items for the families of hurricane victims. For information, call 973-948-5400.