This Heartwarming Organization Is Helping New Jersey Families in a Simple, Special Way

A Simple Idea That Became Something Bigger

Each Stitch Counts began in 2021 with a love of knitting and a simple idea: pair a handmade cotton dishcloth with a bottle of dish detergent and donate it to a local food pantry in New Jersey.

The founder discovered something many of us might not think about. While food pantries help families access groceries, cleaning supplies aren't always available. Yet everyone needs to wash dishes and keep their homes clean.

What started as one person's thoughtful gesture quickly grew into a much bigger mission. Today, a Facebook group with more than 1,500 members across the United States and around the world helps spread the kindness by making dishcloths, assembling donations and supporting food pantries in their own communities.

How You Can Help Right Here in Ocean County

Want to make a difference? You don't have to be a knitter to get involved! Each Stitch Counts welcomes donations of 12- or 16-ounce bottles of liquid dish soap, any brand. Handmade cotton dishcloths are also a wonderful way to contribute.

There are drop-off locations in Toms River and Brick, making it easy for local residents to join the effort. Ocean First Bank at 55 Bananier Drive in Toms River and Manasquan Bank at 24 Princeton Avenue in Brick.

Think about it the next time you're shopping. Adding a bottle of dish soap to your cart could help a neighbor who needs a little extra support.

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It's a beautiful reminder that kindness doesn't have to be complicated. Sometimes, it starts with a bottle of soap, a handmade cloth and a community that cares.

Learn more at eachstitchcounts.org.