Within hours of the news breaking Thursday morning that two men had allegedly stolen a ‘Mahwah Marine Moms’ donation bucket from the Mahwah Bar and Grill, other community groups felt compelled to offer both emotional and monetary support. 

“The whole thing was completely unbelievable,” said Mahwah Marine Mom Terry Wendrychowicz. 

“It was unbelievable that something like this happened in the first place, and then the response that we have gotten from everyone and the outpouring of support from the community has really been amazing."

Thanks to groups like the Mahwah Municipal Alliance and the Greater Ramsey UNICO organization, Mahwah Police Chief James Batelli said the Marine Moms will gain back was stolen from them, which was estimated to be $300 - $400 in donations, and then some.

The MMA has donated $250, and GRUNICO has donated $400.

“We recognize the efforts the Marine Moms take to provide such a valuable community service, and simply want to play a small part in helping them out during this unfortunate time,” Bill Laforet, a board member of the Mahwah Municipal Alliance said.

GRUNICO member Lou LaVigna helped coordinat that group’s $400 donation after hearing about the theft.

According to Wendrychowicz, the Mahwah Marine Moms are “very grateful” for all of this community support.