The annual Vest-A-Cop fundraiser in downtown Toms River took on a lively, community-focused vibe this year, as local police officers traded in their uniforms for aprons to serve food and engage with residents. The event, which has become a favorite tradition in the area, raised funds to provide protective vests for police officers.
Officers from the Toms River Police Department took on roles as waitstaff, delivering meals from local restaurants to event-goers seated outdoors. The event provided a chance for residents to interact with officers in a relaxed setting while contributing to a meaningful cause. In addition to the food, families enjoyed a variety of activities such as face painting, a dunk tank, and vendor booths lining Washington Street, which was closed off for the occasion.
This year marked the 34th annual Vest-A-Cop fundraiser, which has grown significantly since its inception. Officer Kyle Lamar, who organized the event, said the event has evolved since it was first held at the Pizza Hut on Route 37 and moved downtown three years ago. Approximately 70 volunteers from the police department participated, and the event was expected to raise around $50,000 for new protective vests.
The funds raised will go toward purchasing upgraded protective vests for officers. The new vests, which will be worn outside of their uniforms, cost between $1,000-$1,500 and have a five-year lifespan. This shift to external vests will provide better protection for officers in the field.
The first Vest-A-Cop event was started by Kelly Conklin, who ran the event for many years before retiring. Reflecting on the event’s growth, Conklin recalled that it began with just 12 officers waiting tables. “It’s become a must-do event every year,” Conklin said, noting the tremendous community support and the expanded activities that now take place.
Toms River Police Chief Peter Sundack, in his first public event since taking the department’s helm, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community support. “People from all backgrounds came out to support the event,” he said, emphasizing the importance of fostering positive relationships between the police and the community.
Vest-A-Cop also coincided with National Night Out, a nationwide initiative aimed at encouraging positive police-community interactions in a fun, fair-like atmosphere. Schools across the area also got involved, with students raising funds through creative efforts such as paying $1 for the chance to wear pajamas to school. East Dover Elementary Principal Matthew Gray even dyed his hair blue in response to a fundraising promise made to students.
With support from local businesses, county groups, and volunteers, the Vest-A-Cop fundraiser continues to grow, making a tangible impact on officer safety while strengthening the bond between the Toms River community and its police department.
