School staff pitches in for Santa

Written by STAFF Tuesday, December 25, 2012 01:00 am

Guidance counselors Robin Resnick, left, and Jennifer Holmstrom sort donated gifts for the giving tree.

The extended family of the Ventnor Educational Community Complex is granting the holiday wishes of 175 local children.

Staff, parents, friends and community members have donated to the Giving Tree, a new toy and clothing drive at the school. Teacher Marge Master said due to the overwhelming amount of items received, Santa recruited the staff members as his special elves to help with the wrapping and organization of the gifts. The gifts were distributed to the parents of students in need and were specifically given to those affected by Hurricane Sandy.

Individuals and businesses that donated include: Barbara Moody from the Highland Park Association of Gloucester City, AAAA Bike Shop, the Mealo family, Maureen Gottfried, Brian Gery, the town of Livingston, the Peterson family, Deacon Agatino Garufi, Mary Lou Reiff, Michele Cinti, third grade teacher St. Charles Borromeo School, Lisa Heisel, principal at Triangle School, Beth Reitz of Oak Knoll Elementary School, as well as the entire staff of the VECC. 

Holly Kennedy, left, and Kathy McKinney, both secretaries in the Ventnor Middle School, wrap a present for the giving tree.   Holly Kennedy, left, and Kathy McKinney, both secretaries in the Ventnor Middle School, wrap a present for the giving tree.