In 2013, the Knights of Columbus councils and assemblies in the Trenton Diocese, under the direction of Past NJ State Deputy Jim Stoever and managed by the Trenton Diocese Federation of Knights, initiated a program that pays the transportation costs of active-duty military personnel stationed in New Jersey to return home during the holiday season.

 

Although we support all the bases in the state, our primary focus is the Joint Base McGuire–Dix–Lakehurst, given its large population of service personnel—which includes the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Marines. We work with the base chaplains, officers, and NCOs in identifying recipients. The only restriction for applicants is that their rank can be no higher than an E4.

 

The program has been an overwhelming success, as has been the outpouring of thanks and appreciation from the men and women we have sent home. Over $600,000 has been donated since the program began. This has enabled us to purchase round-trip bus, train, and plane tickets for over 1,600 airmen, sailors, soldiers, Coast Guard members, and Marines who would not have been able to get home without our help.

 

With minimal overhead costs, nearly every penny donated is used solely for the transportation fees of eligible applicants. Please consider making a donation. You can donate online using PayPal by CLICKING HERE. If you prefer to mail a check, please CLICK HERE to download the donation form.

 

Checks should be made payable to Central New Jersey Columbian Charities, with “HERO” noted on the memo line. Central New Jersey Columbian Charities is a registered 501(c)(3), and donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Please consult your tax advisor for further information.