Yard sale to benefit non-profits

NEWTON — Over a dozen non-profit human service agencies serving Sussex County will be joining forces to hold a yard sale fundraiser on the Green and in the Pavilion at Sussex County Community College on Saturday, Sept. 17. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. rain or shine. Proceeds from the event will help support the free or low-cost services provided to the public by these agencies. The agencies will pool 10 percent of the money they raise to put toward local mental health events for Sussex County. “The purpose of this event is not just to raise funds for our local non-profit agencies, but to raise public awareness about the amazing work they do,” said Kathleen Fitzsimmons of NAMI-Sussex and Chair of the Mental Health Board Planning Committee. Each agency will have an information table with flyers and pamphlets about their organization and someone available to answer questions. Agencies participating include Advance Housing, Bridgeway, Caring Partners, DASI, Family Support Organization, Mental Health Association of Morris County, Morris/Sussex Youth Advocate Progran, NAMI-Sussex, Pass It Along, Partnership for Social Services, Samaritan Inn, and Way To Freedom. Andover Subacute and Rehabilitation Center has made a generous donation toward the rental of a large tent for the event in case of rain. All items available for sale will be in new or gently used condition. Some agencies will also be selling food, including hot dogs, beverages, baked goods and candy. Local merchants have donated items and gift certificates to be awarded to members of the public as prizes in free raffle ticket drawings. “This is our first attempt at a combined awareness/fundraiser for county non-profit agencies,” said Kathleen Fitzsimmons. “We hope to make it an annual event!” To donate items for this event, call 862-268-5846.