TOMS RIVER, N.J. — The Toms River Regional Schools showed strong support for local law enforcement through their participation in the 2024 Vest-A-Cop campaign, raising funds to provide protective vests for officers serving the Toms River, Beachwood, South Toms River, and Pine Beach police departments.
At Silver Bay Elementary, safeties gathered to celebrate the school’s contributions to the campaign, while district administrators joined in on the festivities at the official fundraiser held in Downtown Toms River on Sept. 30. One of the highlights of the event was the sight of blue-haired elementary school supervisor Matthew Gray, who dyed his hair in fulfillment of a promise made for his school’s successful fundraising efforts.
The generosity continued across the district, with schools like Beachwood Elementary, Walnut Street Elementary, and Joseph A. Citta Elementary presenting donations to local officers. At Beachwood, Officer Anthony accepted the school’s donation, while Officer Crowley was handed a check by Walnut Principal Richard Demarco, marking the community’s commitment to the Vest-A-Cop initiative.
Washington Street Elementary added a fun twist to their fundraising efforts, hosting a pajama day on Sept. 27, where students donated $1 for the chance to wear pajamas to school. The day ended with a lively Friday dance party to celebrate their contributions.
The Vest-A-Cop campaign, supported by the Toms River PBA 137 and local businesses like Autoland of Springfield, continues to be an important annual tradition for the Toms River community. Through the efforts of students, staff, and administrators, the 2024 campaign saw enthusiastic participation, helping to ensure that local officers have the protective gear they need to stay safe while serving their communities.
