Author Archives: Business Development Rep Samantha

Family-Friendly Holiday Activities on a Budget

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From decking the halls and shopping for everyone on your nice list, to joining in on festive activities that spread joy – the holiday season can quickly become the most expensive time of the year. Luckily, making the holidays feel magical for your family doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. Check out these low cost, family-friendly activities that are guaranteed to get the whole family in the holiday spirit.

1. Festive Walk or Drive to See Holiday Lights

Bundle up and embark on a festive walk or drive through a neighborhood that is decked out in holiday lights and classic character inflatables. Your community’s front yard displays can help transform an ordinary winter night into something special (without a price tag).

2. Holiday Movie Marathon

Bring the movie theater to your living room by hosting a holiday movie marathon! Decide on the perfect line-up of movies that will get you and your family in the spirit. Many holiday classics play free on various television networks throughout the season or can be rented on streaming services – often for a fraction of the price of movie theater tickets. Repurpose blankets, pillows, and cushions to create a cozy set-up. To elevate the experience even further, consider making a holiday-themed “concession stand” out of items you have in your pantry or that can be purchased affordably. Create a hot chocolate bar with all the fixings, make festive popcorn with holiday sprinkles, or bake seasonal cookies to enjoy.

 3. Make Homemade Ornaments

Turn your kitchen into your own version of Santa’s workshop by crafting homemade ornaments. With a few affordable supplies that can be found at local dollar and craft stores, you can create magical memories and holiday keepsakes. Not only will you end up with a Christmas tree of meaningful ornaments – they make great gifts for friends and family members, too.

If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these bead candy cane ornaments. All you need are pipe cleaners, festive colored beads, string, and ribbon!

4. Enjoy Local Events

Many towns host free or low cost events to spread holiday cheer in the community – and yours might be one of them! Keep your eye out for festive activities like Christmas tree or Menorah lightings, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and family-fun days with seasonal crafts and games. You can find activities like this posted on your town or county website, in public groups or forums on Facebook and Nextdoor, or from flyers around the community. If you’re in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey, check out our monthly Things to Do on a Budget blog posts – which feature local, affordable, and family-friendly activities for the season.

5. Start a Gratitude Jar

‘Tis the season to reflect on everything you’re grateful for, and a gratitude jar can help you express gratitude each day of the holiday season! You can start this tradition by encouraging your family to set time aside daily to write a note expressing a moment – big or small, in which they are thankful for or that brought them joy. These notes should be dropped into your “gratitude jar,” which should be kept in a visible spot so that everyone remembers to add their note daily. At the end of the season, gather your family together to read notes from the jar. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the year and share one another’s favorite moments and memories. Plus, with the hustle-and-bustle of the holiday season – it can be easy to forget the simple things that brought a smile to your face this year.

6. Create Your Own Family Holiday Story

Tap into your family’s creative side to make a holiday story. To involve the whole crew, consider splitting up storytelling responsibilities. For example, the children can create the characters, and the parents can decide on a theme and plot. You might center your story around a task that must be completed as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, or throw a festive holiday spin on the main character’s activities. After your idea has been developed, it’s time to bring the story to life by writing the narrative and adding illustrations. The magic of crafting a holiday tale is that the story can go wherever your imagination takes you. This activity will leave you with special memories and a story that can be incorporated into holiday traditions for years to come.

Subscribe to our First Scoop blog if you’d like to get monthly lists of low cost, family-friendly activities like this right to your inbox.

First Financial wishes you and yours a wonderful holiday season!

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this December 2025

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Check out these free or inexpensive events in Monmouth & Ocean Counties that are sure to deliver big holiday cheer without stretching your budget!

December 1

Magic Of Lights: Drive-Through Holiday Experience (Holmdel) – Buckle up and drive right into the holiday spirit at PNC Bank Arts Center through December 30th, beginning at 5pm each evening. You will drive through a selection of dazzling lights, classic holiday scenes, and well-known characters. You can also venture to the village to take pictures with Santa, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate, and enjoy festive activities. Ticket prices vary. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

December 2

Christmas Tree Lighting (Freehold) – There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by counting down to see a Christmas tree twinkle to life! Stop by the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Hall of Records from 5pm-7pm, with a rain date of December 3rd. Bundle up, grab a cup of hot cider, and enjoy a choir performance – and a very special holiday guest may join in, too!  There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn more.

The Village at Anne Ellen (Manalapan) – Experience holiday magic on select dates through December 30th between 5pm-9pm. You will embark on a nostalgic wagon ride that will drop you off at the village – and begin an enchanting journey through illuminated pathways, festive displays, cozy scenes, and charming shops. Tickets must be purchased online, and the admission price varies. Click here to purchase tickets and experience an unforgettable evening of festive cheer.

December 3

Winter Holiday Lighting (Marlboro) – Join Marlboro Township in the annual lighting of the Menorah, Christmas Tree, and Crescent beginning at 6pm. There will be live holiday music, family-fun activities, a dessert buffet, and character appearances from Santa, Miss Elf, and Little Dreidel. Learn more here.

December 5

Christmas Tree Lighting (Toms River) – Stop by the Christmas Tree Lighting at 33 Washington Street in Downtown Toms River from 5:30pm-7:30pm. With live entertainment, family activities, and a special visitor from the North Pole – we can’t think of anything that will get you in the holiday spirit faster! There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland (Cream Ridge) – Holland Ridge Farm has bloomed into a Winter Wonderland through January 4th. Twinkling holiday lights and all the festive classics are scattered amongst the tulips, creating an event that might become your newest holiday tradition. Santa will be making a trip down from the North Pole on select dates, too! Admission ranges from $17 to $25, and children ages 2 and under are always free. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

December 6

Hometown Christmas (Lavalette) – This Lavallette tradition is back to spread hometown holiday cheer from 11am-3pm. You can stroll through town, pop into participating local businesses to enjoy various festive crafts, and embark on a horse and carriage ride alongside Santa. There are additional details on the Lavallette Beach NJ Facebook page.

Winter Wonderland (Toms River) – Downtown Toms River will transform into a winter wonderland for the community to enjoy from 11am-4pm. There will be holiday music drifting through Washington Street, as well as family fun activities, caroling, face and ornament painting, holiday story time, and more. Your favorite local businesses and vendors will be selling various handcrafted gifts, bringing the holiday shopping to you! There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to see how you can ring in the holiday season in Downtown Toms River.

December 7

Breakfast with Santa (Shrewsbury) – Your little one can tell Santa their Christmas wish list over a delicious, hot breakfast at the Shrewsbury Firehouse from 9am-12pm. Everyone is encouraged to come hungry, festive, and ready to smile for a picture with Santa. Admission is $10 for those ages 4 & up, and free for those ages 3 & under. Additional information can be found here.

Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting (Holmdel) – There will be double the lights and double the cheer at the Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting at Town Hall from 4pm-6pm. From free hot chocolate and an inflatable snow maze with a gingerbread obstacle course, to face painting and a DJ mixing classic holiday hits – everyone in the family is sure to have a jolly good time. Plus, you can give Santa a warm welcome when he arrives with the help of the Holmdel Fire & Rescue. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn more.

Holiday Jingle Sip & Shop Vendor Market (Toms River) – Jingle all the way home after an afternoon of sipping and shopping at Garden State Distillery from 12pm-4pm. Local makers, artisans, and small businesses will be selling unique items perfect for someone on your list. If you are over 21 years of age, your shopping can be made even more festive with the help of a seasonal craft drink from the distillery. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

December 13

Brunch with Santa & Children’s Holiday Shopping Bazaar (Toms River) – Join Santa for brunch and holiday shopping at the Toms River Elks #1875 from 9am-1pm. Your little ones can share their wish lists and take photos with Santa. They can then take the reins at the holiday shopping bazaar – where items are all priced at $10 or less. Tickets are $12 for those ages 12 & up, and $6 for those ages 12 & under. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the door, but will be cash only. Pre-payment for seating is strongly encouraged. Click here to find additional information and make your reservation.

Holiday Made in Monmouth (Lincroft) – If you still have people to shop for on your “nice list,” head to Brookdale Community College from 10am-4pm. With over 200 local vendors selling one-of-a-kind items, you’re sure to go home with something for everyone on your list. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

School of Rock Jingle Jam (Brick) – Enjoy an afternoon of family fun activities from 11am-2pm. There will be live performances by student musicians, festive crafts, and pictures with Santa. You’ll also have the chance to become an instant star by joining a spontaneous rock band. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

December 16

Menorah Lighting (Howell) – Join the community in the annual tradition of lighting the Menorah at the Howell Municipal Building, beginning at 5:30pm. In addition to lighting the Menorah, there will be free hot drinks and pastries to enjoy. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to view the event details.

December 21

Christmas at Allaire (Wall) – The Historic Village at Allaire is being transformed into the North Pole from 11am-4pm. Shop for seasonal goods as you enjoy the sound of live carolers and sip on cozy hot chocolate – and maybe run into Santa too. Step back in time and celebrate the holidays the Victorian way, with ornament making and traditional party games. Tickets can be purchased online for $13.58 for those ages 4 & older, and this event is free for those ages 3 & under. You can find more details and purchase tickets here.

December 31

First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration (Seaside Heights) – Ask yourself, “How is it already 2026?” at this family fun event at Seaside Heights Boardwalk from 1pm-5pm. With magic, wildlife, bubble and sing-along shows, to photo ops with your favorite characters – you’re in for an action-packed afternoon! The celebration ends with a balloon drop and countdown to the new year that will have the family in bed before midnight. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

Twilight Fun Run/Walk & Party (Manasquan) – Start the new year on a good foot at this 2-Mile Fun Run or Walk, beginning at Leggett’s Sand Bar at 4pm. Participating is a two-for-one deal – you can end 2025 as a 10,000-step day, and then enjoy a free buffet at Leggett’s. The Fun Run costs $35 per runner/walker, or $20 for those just looking to join in on the fun at the party afterward. Pre-registration is encouraged. Click here to learn more and “run” into 2026 in a unique way.

On behalf of the team at First Financial, we wish you and yours a joyous holiday season. We look forward to serving the Monmouth and Ocean County community with the same dedication and personalized financial service in 2026.

Ways to Cope During Times of Financial Difficulty

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A health emergency, the loss of a job, or unexpected large expenses can happen to anyone. Even for the most financially prepared folks, such an instance can make things especially challenging. If you are currently facing a financial hardship or difficult time in your life, there are various organizations you can turn to for assistance to help bridge the gap.

1. Food Assistance

Food pantries collect and distribute necessary food items in designated areas. Common items you might find at a food pantry are canned fruits and vegetables, lean protein sources like canned tuna or chicken, and dry grains such as pasta, cereal, and rice. Food pantries may have different eligibility criteria for receiving food – sometimes depending on your income, family size, or if you are experiencing financial hardship.

Soup kitchens are centers that distribute little to no-cost nutritious meals to those experiencing food insecurity. Like food pantries, soup kitchens may also have different eligibility criteria for receiving a meal.

If you are in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey and experiencing food insecurity, check to see if Fulfill can help. From a network of food pantries and soup kitchens to assistance determining eligibility for benefits – Fulfill takes a comprehensive approach to food security. Another resource is JBJ Soul Kitchen, a local soup kitchen serving nutritious, warm 3-course meals with various payment options depending on your needs. The State of New Jersey also has a Food Assistance webpage to help connect residents in need to local and state resources.

2. Utilities Resources

Essential utilities such as electricity and water, do not pause when a hardship arises. Your utility provider may be able to assist if you are facing financial hardship. Contact your service provider(s) to see what the options might be. They may be able to offer payment plans, due date extensions, or budget-billing plans if your hardship might be long-term.

Furthermore, if you are a New Jersey resident and need help in paying for utility bills, are in danger of utility shut-off or are currently disconnected – the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has various utility grant programs you can apply for.

3. Clothing and Household Items

Community closets may provide clothing and household items to individuals and families in need. Typically, donations of gently used items are accepted and offered to the public at low or no-cost. If you are local to Monmouth or Ocean Counties, Clara’s Closet by Lunch Break is a community closet offering select items free of charge to eligible guests.

Second-hand shopping at thrift stores can also be a great resource to purchase gently used clothing and household items at a low cost. A large thrift store chain that accepts donations to sell to cost-conscious shoppers is Goodwill. You can locate a Goodwill near you here.

4. Housing & Shelters

It can be comforting to know that housing resources and shelters exist nearby should you ever need them. There are usually different rules and eligibility requirements that must be met, so it is always best to consult with personnel at the organization local to you for more information.

Some housing resources include:

  • Emergency housing facilities: Provides a short-term, clean, and safe place for families or individuals to stay who have an immediate need.
  • Transitional housing programs: A resource designed to transition those who are unhoused to more permanent living solutions.
  • Support services: Certain non-profits and local or state organizations may be able to assist with housing applications. Visit your state website to learn more. For NJ residents, visit this website.

If you are located in Monmouth or Ocean, we’ve developed a list of several community-based resources by county. These organizations may be able to assist you in times of need. This is not a comprehensive list of all the local resources that may be available to you. However, it is important to know that there are various charities and organizations within the community that will be in your corner should you ever need them.

For assistance related to your First Financial accounts or if a financial hardship has arisen and you would like to discuss your monthly loan payments, visit the need help page of our website. If you have a question about loan options or membership eligibility, contact us today.

First Financial Federal Credit Union is not affiliated with any of the organizations named within this article. This list is meant to be a general resource of community organizations and assistance programs that may provide services to those located in Monmouth and Ocean Counties in New Jersey. Please check each organization’s website for the most up to date information on their services.

How to Save Money at the Vet

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f you’re a pet owner, you know how important it is to keep them happy and healthy – and sometimes, that can be costly. Whether it’s a routine checkup or an emergency that requires treatment, vet bills can quickly drain the savings of even the most-prepared pet owners. However, there are ways to manage both the expected and unexpected expenses that come along with owning a furry friend without sacrificing care. Keep reading to learn five tips on how to potentially save money on vet bills.

1. Keep Up with Routine Exams, Vaccinations, and Preventative Care

Routine exams are an essential part of responsible pet ownership. This is the pet-equivalent of an annual physical exam for us – a comprehensive check-up meant to assess overall health and catch any potential issues. Early identification can help pet owners avoid the often high costs associated with emergency care or the treatment of more severe conditions. Plus, early diagnosis typically comes with better outcomes for your furry friends, too.

Routine vaccinations and parasite preventatives may also be administered at these exams. Certain vaccines are required to be administered every year, while others may be optional – which can help you plan for costs. In the case of parasites, there are many that can affect your pet and cause diseases that are expensive to treat. Vaccines and preventatives are often relatively inexpensive compared to the treatment for the diseases and illnesses they are designed to prevent.

 2. Consider Pet Insurance

Depending on your policy, pet insurance can help you pay for major out-of-pocket expenses in the event your pet is diagnosed with an illness or sustains an injury. With most policies, you are required to pay a monthly premium and any veterinarian expenses up front. After the visit to the vet, you are typically required to submit a claim and are later reimbursed for a percentage of veterinary expenses relating to covered illness or injury. Your pet insurance may have a deductible that must be met before coverage begins, but then pays for covered medical expenses depending on the set rate you select once the deductible is met. For example, if your reimbursement rate is 80% – the insurer will pay 80% of vet expenses, while you pay the remaining 20%. Different types of pet insurance offer different premiums depending on the coverage you need and deductible you select, making it easy to adjust different aspects of the plan to fit your budget.

Pet insurance is not required, but can be a good option for many pet owners. In exchange for paying a low monthly premium, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can more comfortably pay for care that may be otherwise expensive.

 3. Comparison Shop

Don’t be afraid to shop around for veterinarians, as not all charge the same prices for the same services. Prices can vary for numerous reasons, and while it might not make a big difference to the cost of a routine exam – it could make one if your pet needs to undergo complex surgery.

The same goes for prescriptions. You may be able to find the medication your pet needs for a cheaper price at an online pet pharmacy – just be sure to do your due diligence to avoid scam websites. You may also find any specialty diets or preventative treatments your pet needs for less online.

Unfortunately, your pet may one day have an illness or injury that warrants emergency care. You may consider comparison shopping if you are unsure of whether your pet’s situation requires a visit to the emergency clinic, which is typically more expensive since this is typically for after-hours care. Calling emergency clinics, or doing an online vet consultation – can help you determine which type of care is best for your pet.

4. Be Honest with Your Veterinarian

While it might feel awkward to discuss your financial situation, being honest about it with your veterinarian might put them in a better position to help you. For example, if your vet knows you are working with limited funds – they might be able to help you identify the care that is necessary versus optional, or help find the most cost-effective solutions. They may even have a payment plan to help you split up the cost of a visit or treatment into more affordable monthly payments. At the end of the day, you both want the same thing – what’s best for your pet.

5. Consider a Sinking Fund for Pet Expenses

A sinking fund is a way to save money over time for a specific, anticipated expense by regularly saving small amounts. In this case, you’d create a sinking fund for pet expenses – for that routine exam, illnesses your pet might face as it grows older, or both. While a sinking fund won’t necessarily save you money at the vet, it will help you avoid going into debt when these expenses arise. You can also look into one of our Special Savings Accounts for this purpose.*

If you’re looking for more money saving tips like these, subscribe to our First Scoop blog by entering your email address at the top right.

*A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. All personal memberships are part of the Rewards First program and a $5 per month non-participation fee is charged to the base savings account for memberships not meeting the minimum requirements of the program. Click here to view full Rewards First program details. Some restrictions apply, contact the Credit Union for more information.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this November 2025

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This time of year is all about gathering with your loved ones and expressing gratitude. We hope you can find some budget-friendly ways to do both with these free or inexpensive activities in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this November.

November 7

Fall Festivities (Cream Ridge) – Take some time to soak up the last bit of fall before the holidays set in at Stone Tavern Orchard from 9:30am-4:30pm, through mid-November. You will embark on a hayride that will take you to the orchards, pumpkin patch, flower patch, corn maze, and corn pit. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4-11, and children ages 3 and under are free. You will also have to pay for anything you pick. Call 609.223.0051 ahead of the day you intend to visit to ensure the festivities are happening, as they are discontinued after mid-November. Learn more here.

November 8

Fall Craft Show (Tinton Falls) – Get crafty and avoid the holiday rush by getting a head start on your holiday shopping at the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center from 9am-2pm. With over 40 vendors selling handmade items and one-of-a-kind finds, you’ll be sure to find the perfect gift for someone on your list – and maybe something for yourself, too! There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

Holiday Craft Market (Manahawkin) – Local makers are working just as hard as Santa’s elves to give you a one-of-a-kind early holiday shopping experience at Southern Regional High School from 9am-3pm. There will be over 60 local vendors selling unique and thoughtful handmade items, free photos with Santa, holiday music to enjoy as you shop, food trucks, a 50/50 raffle, and more. There is no entry fee to attend but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

Oktoberfest (Lacey) – If you haven’t attended an Oktoberfest yet this fall, you have one more chance at Lacey Township’s – taking place at Argos Farm from 2pm-6pm. You can enjoy live music by the Pickles, fire pits, a pig roast, adult beverages (ages 21+), and all the amenities that the farm has to offer. Ticket information will be available shortly. Learn more here.

November 15

Chili and Chowder Festival (New Egypt) – What’s better than chili and chowder on a chilly autumn day? Chili and chowder with a glass of wine (for anyone ages 21+) and a side of live music at Laurita Winery! Head over from 11am-9pm to warm up with chili, chowder, wine, or all three. Tickets are $16 plus tax online and $18 including tax at the door, and those under 21 are free. Supervised children are welcome and can enjoy the on-site playground, clown, and facepainting artist. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets to enjoy cozy autumn warmth.

November 16

5K Turkey Trot & 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk (Howell) – Walk or run through the crisp autumn air with your family and friends at Oak Glen Park, with race day check-in beginning at 8am and the race kicking off at 9am. Pre-registration is required to participate and is $25 per participant. The first 125 registrations will receive a free shirt and medal. You can learn more and pre-register here.

Cider Making Demonstration (Holmdel) – Autumn is in full swing and one of the best ways to enjoy the season is with fresh apple cider. You can enjoy all things apple cider at Historic Longstreet Farm from 12pm-2pm! Not only can you sample this fall classic, but you can help press this year’s apple harvest into cider and learn about its other uses. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here for more information.

November 21

U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland (Cream Ridge) – Holland Ridge Farm is blooming into a Winter Wonderland from November 21st through January 4th. The entire farm will be lit up with twinkling holiday lights, windmill music and a light show, and 50,000 illuminated rainbow tulips. Hot cocoa stands will be sprinkled throughout the farm so you can sip as you stroll through the holiday magic. Santa will even make a trip down from the North Pole on select dates. Admission is $17 Monday through Thursday and $20 Friday through Sunday, and children ages 2 and under are free. Click here to purchase tickets and experience a winter event like no other.

November 22

Granny’s Attic Craft Show (Middletown) is back for the 44th year in a row at Thompson Middle School from 9am-4pm. Now a local tradition, over 250 vendors come together to help the community satisfy their holiday shopping needs. There will also be a Super 50/50 and a $1,000 Visa Gift Card raffle. Admission is $6 for those ages 4 and older, and children ages 3 and under are free. All the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Thompson Middle School. You can find more details and purchase tickets here.

November 26

Open House Night of Shopping and Sing-Along (Toms River) – Kickoff the holiday season at the Mathis House from 6:30pm-8pm. This is the perfect time to wander through their beautifully decorated rooms as you sip on warm tea, enjoy holiday treats, and mingle with other guests. There is no entry fee to attend. Mathis House kindly requests that attendees RSVP in advance as a courtesy by calling 732-818-7580 or booking tickets at RESY. You can learn more here.

November 28

Outdoor Winter Wonderland Grand Opening (Middletown) – The Middletown Sports Complex is introducing a new way to enjoy the winter outdoors, beginning at 7pm. There will be a winter wonderland that you can enjoy all season long with festive music, lights, décor, an outdoor ice-skating rink, igloos and fire pits, food and specialty drinks, hot cocoa stands, and more. Ticket details and pricing are coming soon. Click here to be in the know and celebrate the grand opening.

November 29

Holiday Open House (Toms River) – Santa and Mrs. Claus will be able to sneak away from the North Pole to hear your little ones’ wish lists and take pictures at the Ocean County Historical Society from 10am-3pm. Attendees will also have the chance to tour the Victorian style house – and met with festive decorations at every corner. There will also be holiday-themed refreshments and gifts for the children attending. There is no entry fee to participate. Please be advised that you must bring your own camera to take your picture with Santa home. Click here to learn more.

Santa’s Slay Murder Mystery (New Egypt) – Enjoy a murder mystery event with a festive twist at Laurita Winery, beginning at 7:30pm. An annual holiday party for Grinch International Factory of Toys took a not-so-jolly turn and Santa needs you to become one of his little helpers to solve this holiday mystery. Guests are encouraged to arrive 60-90 minutes in advance to be seated and enjoy wine (ages 21+) and food before the event begins. Tickets are $25, food and drinks are not included in this cost. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

Small Business Saturday (Ocean Grove) – Support local small businesses while finding the perfect gifts to wrap up for the holidays in the quaint town of Ocean Grove all day long. Every year on Small Business Saturday, Ocean Grove encourages shoppers to help the local community thrive – and is offering free photos with Santa on Main Avenue from 1pm-3pm. There is no entry fee to attend but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to find out more.

Small Business Saturday (Toms River) – Join the community in supporting local Toms River businesses by shopping small. This is the perfect opportunity to head Downtown and check out a local small business you have been meaning to visit! Toms River will be providing free 4-hour parking spaces in the Irons Street lot behind Wells Fargo Bank. Learn more here.

On behalf of the team at First Financial, we would like to wish you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving! We hope your holiday is full of good company, delicious food, and an abundance of gratitude.

Get Your Business Disaster Ready

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It is often said that the one predictable thing about life is that it’s unpredictable, and emergencies and natural disasters are no exception. Disasters can take many different forms but can all potentially have the same impact – unexpected, costly damage to your business and disruptions to your day-to-day operations. Despite the unpredictable nature of emergencies, you can put yourself and your business in a better position to recover if you are prepared. Here are some ways you can be ready if disaster were to strike.

Consider the Risks to Your Business

Approximately 25% of businesses do not reopen after disasters – but the ones that consider the risks to their business ahead of time are often better prepared to face and overcome them.

Businesses aren’t all affected by disasters in the same way. Each business has unique circumstances that can have an impact on how a disaster will affect their operations and financial position, and what their road to recovery will look like.

Additionally, businesses aren’t all affected by the same disasters. For example, a business in California might want to dedicate more resources toward earthquake preparedness than a business in New Jersey. Although earthquakes can happen anywhere without warning, devastating earthquakes are infrequent in New Jersey – making it less likely that one would cause a business there to sustain major damage. On the same note, emergencies don’t always have to occur from the environment specific to your area. Your business should also prepare for emergencies like cyberattacks or supply chain disruptions, where may not be able to access the resources needed to meet your customers’ needs.

It is important to consider the disasters that are more common in your area and industry so you can target your preparation and resources.

Make a Plan

Once you have considered the specific risks to your business, it’s time to formulate a response plan – or how you will effectively manage those risks.

Emergency plans are not one-size-fits-all; they should be tailored to your business and its specific strengths, weaknesses, and operations. An emergency plan, sometimes referred to as a business continuity plan, will help you prepare an effective response to recovering from a disaster before it happens. A few areas that should be addressed are critical functions, the potential disasters your business could face, immediate priorities, responsibilities of key employees, and strategies and timelines for recovery.

It is important to consider the key staff your plan includes. In small businesses, it is common for team members to wear many hats and have several responsibilities. In the face of an emergency, this could make it difficult for your staff to know which area to immediately prioritize. It could also make it difficult for them to be trained in the most important recovery areas, as they might have conflicting responsibilities. It is commonly said that a fence is only as strong as its weakest link – therefore, every team member should have clearly defined responsibilities and be effectively trained on how to prioritize them.

This plan should be stored in a place that is easy to access – and not where it can be destroyed in a disaster. The SBA Business Resilience Guide is a resource that can help you identify how to prepare for and recover from disasters, which can be included in your plans.

A business continuity plan will look different depending on the emergencies that are addressed. Consult the following resources from Ready.gov to better understand the different risks various disasters pose to your business’ finances and operations.

Practice the Plan

You don’t necessarily have to wait for disaster to strike to execute the plan. It’s a good idea to set aside time to run through the plan with your staff on an annual basis so that they are ready should a disaster occur.

Having an emergency plan in place can make a big difference in the outcome of your small business following a disaster. For more small business tips and resources, subscribe to our First Scoop Blog.