December 24, 2019 – MidJersey.News

December 23, 2019

HOWELL, NJ — Congressman Chris Smith today joined representatives from the Stephen Siller Tunnels to Towers Foundation, local elected officials, members of law enforcement and local veterans in honoring United States Marine Corporal Scott Nokes. Nokes received the keys from the foundation to a new “smart home” which was built specifically for him and his needs as a blind double amputee resulting from his service in Afghanistan.

In 2003, Smith authored the Veterans Benefit Act (PL 108-183) that increased government funding to $50,000 for Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) programs for severely disabled servicemembers. The SAH government program helps veterans like Cpl. Nokes live independently but doesn’t cover the entire cost of home ownership. That’s where the Tunnels to Towers Foundations stepped in. Through a strong and committed network of donors and corporate partners, the Tunnels to Towers Foundation conveyed the home to Cpl. Nokes free of mortgage.

“No one deserves this more than Corporal Nokes,” Smith said. “He is a courageous marine with an indomitable spirit.”

PICTURED: Rep. Chris Smith addresses a crowd of more than 200 people who turned out to honor former Marine Clp. Scott Nokes as he was presented with keys to his new home that was built to accommodate his service injuries. Photo provided by Chris Smith’s office.

December 24, 2019

Allentown, NJ (MONMOUTH)– Allentown-Upper Freehold, Scout, Pack 180 had some busy scouts at the December meeting. Scouts participated in the NJ101.5 Better Bears collection, creating beaded candy canes, one to keep for a family tradition and one to pass along to the Princeton Hospital’s Cancer Center, and distributed to patients.

Scouts also assembled small wooden Christmas Trees for local first responders.

Here are some photos of our boys hard at work, our amazing volunteer parents and the some of our first responders recipients, Allentown Police Department, Hope Fire Company, and Allentown First Aid Squad. Pack 180 wishes all our scout families a happy holiday break! Pinewood Derby season is next!!!