On Friday, December 17, Carver employees and volunteers handed out nearly 550 gifts to over 240 families during our Holiday Toy Drive.
Tricia Massucco, Carver’s Director of Elementary School Based Programs, handed out gifts to families while looking extra festive.
There was an increased need for gifts this year, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact Norwalk families. Within an hour of our Toy Drive’s online registration form going live, over 100 families had signed up for over 300 gifts. We were forced to halt registration, unsure of whether or not we could accommodate more families. Thankfully, there was an outpouring of support from generous individuals and organizations in Norwalk and the surrounding communities that made it possible for us to register more families. Ultimately, we gave out more gifts than ever before.
Traditionally, we’ve held a Holiday Party at the Carver Community Center complete with games, dancing, and Santa Claus. Families would grab their gifts and join in the fun. When the pandemic hit, however, we had to make adjustments in order to continue meeting the needs of our families while prioritizing their health and safety. When last year’s Toy Drive proved to be a successful solution, we knew we had to repeat it again this year.
We’re thrilled we were able to bring joy to so many children while easing the financial burden weighing on families. We’re also humbled by the incredible generosity shown by the Toy Drive’s supporters:
Campbell’s Snacks
Greens Farms Academy
Mike Barbis Santa Toy Drive
Rowayton Civic Association
Rowayton Fire Department
Saint Jerome Church
St. Luke’s School
USPS Norwalk
Westport Police Department
And all of the compassionate individuals who made monetary and in-kind donations!
Many, many thanks to everyone who made our Holiday Toy Drive possible, including volunteers from Brien McMahon High School, Jensly Hernandez and Doulsina Sandoval; Greens Farms Academy, Max Kim and Cecil Reid; the Rowayton community, Joan de Regt and Jeff Walsh; and the Rowayton Fire Department. We are incredibly grateful for these wonderful communities. Together, we are illustrating the season of giving in action!
