Time To Help The Newtown Fund Fill Holiday Baskets

For some, the Halloween decorations and costumes signal the beginning of the holiday season. Although it seems too soon to be thinking about such things, The Newtown Fund, under the directions of its president, Doreen Kostecki, has already been hard at work planning for its Holiday Basket Program.

Each year the Newtown Fund brings a holiday meal and gifts to more than 100 families right here in Newtown. Rick Mazzariello of The Newtown Fund continues to lead this annual effort to ensure that no family in Newtown goes without a holiday celebration.

More than 40 years ago, Joseph P. Chase organized the first Holiday Basket Project. The program has continued through the years because of the efforts of many individuals, organizations, and businesses who volunteer and contribute in a variety of ways. Without this townwide support, the program could not reach out to all of the families who need it.

There are four ways that the community can participate in this year’s Holiday Basket Program. The first is by “adopting” a needy family, by making a commitment to provide a complete holiday meal for a family, including gifts for each family member. The second is by making a financial contribution to The Newtown Fund.

The third is by making donations of nonperishable food, new, unused clothing and toys on December 13 at the Sandy Hook School. Finally, members of the community can volunteer to deliver the Holiday Baskets to the adopted families on December 13.

To adopt a family or to help deliver holiday baskets, contact Rick Mazzariello at 270-9190.

Tax deductible contributions, payable to The Newtown Fund, Inc, may be sent to The Newtown Fund, Inc, PO Box 641, Newtown CT 06470-0641.

Any family that wishes to be adopted can contact Newtown Social Services at 270-4330.