Gibson’s Fitness Center, always among the top collectors of the Washington Business Improvement District’s Annual Operation Jersey Cares holiday season effort on behalf of our troops, once again hit a high note. In fact, Gibson’s recaptured the collection “title” after a one year hiatus from the top! 

With Gibson’s leading the way, 82 boxes filled with items to make life a little bit easier for service men and women were delivered to the Operation Jersey Cares New Jersey headquarters in January. 

Gibson’s, which has always been either No. 1 or No. 2,  brought in 18 boxes this year. The Belvidere Sons of the American Legion, the top collector last year, brought in 13 boxes for second place. 

“A fabulous effort by Gibson’s, the American Legion and the many participating Washington businesses,” said Melanie Thiel, Executive Director of the WBID. “Our troops need our support and this is one way we can do just that. A true community effort!”

Thiel added that nearly all WBID businesses participated, as well as many other local businesses and area organizations, were part of the annual collection of personal care and food items. .

The collection began in mid-November and concluded on Dec. 24. The boxes were delivered by Jeff Smith of Smith Tractor (on right, below) and Gary Albanese, long time Smith Ford employee, now with Fred Beans Ford in Washington Township. Fred Beans donated the use of one of their vans for delivery of the boxes. 

“This program is not just a Washington Borough effort; it’s become a regional effort,” said Thiel. “Washington Borough’s businesses, which started this initiative many years ago  – and the whole town – is proud to lead the way with this holiday project.”