PRINCETON NJ Announcement

Princeton, NJ, November 17, 2025 – Celebrating its 25th year, the YWCA Princeton's St. Nicholas Project is currently seeking some helpful "elves" to keep the magic of the holidays alive by providing presents to local families in the community. Open to everyone — including individuals, families, community groups, local businesses, etc. — the St. Nicholas Project allows a meaningful opportunity for individuals to "become St. Nicholas" by choosing to sponsor a large or small family or an individual, with options available to fit any budget. 

 

The St. Nicholas Project was founded in 2000 by Jill Jachera to help families in need in the Princeton community, many of whom are new immigrant families. This issue is close to Jachera's heart as her husband is an immigrant who came to this country at four years old from Cuba with no money, no English-speaking skills, and one suitcase of clothes for his entire family. "Even though he was only four, he still remembers the acts of kindness that made his family feel welcome when they started in this country. We want to pay it forward and do the same for immigrant families and those in similar situations throughout Princeton," Jachera states.  

 

The project also holds a personal meaning for Jachera, as it is named in memory of her nephew, Nicholas Nutile, who was killed in an automobile accident in 2001. Each year, she continues to lead the drive, encouraging businesses and individuals to join in the effort to enrich the lives of local families and as a way to strengthen the community. 

Participants will be provided with a "wish list" for a particular family and/or individual in need. Gifts should be new and unwrapped. All items MUST be dropped off on Tuesday, December 16th, between 8 a.m. and 12 noon at the YWCA Princeton's circular driveway in front of the building, located at 59 Paul Robeson Place. 

To adopt a family as "St. Nicholas," make a contribution, or learn more about how to get involved, please contact Jill Jachera at jill.jachera@gmail.com?by November 24. Please be sure to include your current contact information (name, email address, and phone number) when reaching out.  

 

For those who wish to give but cannot shop, tax-deductible donations may be made directly to YWCA Princeton by indicating the gift is for the St. Nicholas Project. In addition to toys, food, and clothing, contributions toward educational tuition through the YWCA Princeton's Burke Foundation Early Childhood Center are also greatly appreciated. 

 

 

About YWCA Princeton 

YWCA Princeton is #OnAMission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. The YW advances its mission through programs that promote equity by creating opportunity, and support for women and girls along every age and every stage of life. Programs include childcare, English as a Second Language classes, a breast cancer resource center, economic empowerment offerings, racial and gender equity advocacy, professional and social groups, and more. For more details about services, visit www.ywcaprinceton.org.