(On the top photo: Nina Bachrach, Bergen Volunteer Center, Community Service committee members Shirley Sosland & Barbara Ostroth) 

Waldwick, NJ – (March 5, 2020) – For mothers and families across Bergen County, 2020 presented to be one of the most difficult years to date. The pandemic as we all experienced, left everyone exposed and vulnerable to this infectious disease, and what was more alarming was the inability to have access to the basic cleaning supplies needed to keep homes, clean and germ-free.

The Greater Bergen Realtors® Community Service Committee has partnered with the Bergen Volunteer Center Mentoring Mom’s Program in a yearly collection of cleaning supplies, and toiletries to help families in need through their ‘Clean Homes, Clean Families’ program.  This year was no exception– the GBR Community Service Committee kicked off their campaign earlier this year in an effort to be able to help women and families in need sooner rather than later.

The Mentoring Mom’s program is a Bergen Volunteer’s Center program designed to train and supervise volunteers to serve as mentors to mothers who are working hard to provide a safe, stable home for their families. Mentors are trusted allies who provide emotional support and practical guidance to mothers who are struggling to make a good life for themselves and their families.

The committee ran a month-long active campaign requesting donations of cleaning supplies and toiletries. This resulted in an overwhelming participation from the membership with donations that surpassed a little over $1,500.

Community Service Committee member Barbara Ostroth said, "Our GBR Community Service Committee was so pleased to have the overwhelming support of many Bergen County realtors who stepped up to the plate to donate tons of cleaning supplies and toiletries needed by many families around the county this past month during our CLEAN HOMES, CLEAN FAMILIES campaign.  During this difficult year, our help is needed more than ever by those who are struggling."

Greater Bergen Realtors is committed to working together with other organizations and giving back to the community. For more information and other opportunities to partner with the Greater Bergen Realtors Community Service committee contact staff liaison Kathy Colucci at [email protected].