County leaders, local organization join efforts to bring children smiles this holiday season

KENANSVILLE — Coretta Scott King’s quote: “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members,” could not ring louder for Duplin County’s leaders and local organizations working together to help their communities.

With the holidays upon us, a group of county employees have joined forces to help Shackle free Community Outreach Agency with a toy drive, hosting a drop off location for the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign at the administrative office located at 224 Seminary Street in Kenansville.

“We believe that every child deserves a memorable and happy holiday season, and we are committed to making a positive impact in their lives,” said Trisha-Ann Hoskins, Deputy Clerk to the Board of the County Commissioners to the Duplin Journal in an email.

“We are enthusiastic about contributing to this wonderful cause and ensuring that underprivileged youth in our community have a joyous Christmas,” said Hoskins.

The last day to donate to Toys for Tots is Saturday, Dec. 16. Please make sure to bring an unwrapped toy. Last year the Toys for Toys program supported 8,000 children from Duplin, Bladen, Sampson, and Wayne counties with 23,582 toys distributed across the region.