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Date: 12/1/2022
SOUTHWICK — The Southwick Civic Fund is seeking donations of new, unopened toys for kids up to age 15 for their annual Secret Santa and the Angry Elf Toy Drive.
Civic Fund President Joseph Deedy said toys of about $15 each are preferred. They can be dropped off at Moolicious Ice Cream, 258 Feeding Hills Rd., Southwick, to be distributed to families in Southwick, Granville and Tolland who may need assistance in getting Christmas gifts for their children.
Deedy said the Civic Fund does not set any specific financial requirements for families to receive donated gifts, only a proof of residence.
“We started this for the kids that really needed it, but there can be a lot going on behind that door,” said Deedy. “We don’t do dollars and cents. If you fill out the form, I don’t ask questions.”
He said that approach is particularly useful in today’s economic climate, where families who may not have been financially insecure in the past are struggling to make ends meet.
The Southwick Civic Fund is also preparing for its annual Winter Forest and Craft Fair and is seeking sponsors for Christmas trees to be put on display in front of Town Hall.
Local businesses and vendors will be packed into Town Hall 4-7 p.m. on Dec. 10 for the craft fair, which will also feature baked goods, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus.
Deedy said that his group is seeking more sponsors for Christmas trees to be displayed in front of Town Hall for the fair. Individuals, families, civic groups and local businesses can sponsor a tree for $150, with all funds raised going towards civic fund activities.
“We are all sold out for the craft fair portion, but we are always looking for Christmas tree sponsors,” said Deedy.
Visitors to the fair can vote on their favorite decorated tree, and first-, second- and third-place winners will be announced by Dec. 20.
“The tree is provided for you! You come and decorate with your family or coworkers and the tree is lit for our event on Dec. 10, additionally all trees will be lit every night during the month of December,” said the Southwick Civic Fund in a Facebook post.
Anyone interested in sponsoring a tree should visit southwickcivicfund.org.