Since 1959, The Newtown Fund has helped residents who have difficulty gifting their loved ones on the winter holidays, as well as during the year with support of fuel, food, medical, and rental expenses.

On Saturday, December 14, volunteers of all ages will be dropping off at Fraser Woods School, 173 South Main Street, the hundreds of gifts they purchased as Newtown Fund “Adopt-A-Family” contributors. That day — a/k/a Depot Day — will be the culmination of the fund’s Holiday Basket Program.

Linda Bates, president of the organization, extends a special “thank you to the scores of Newtowners who have adopted individuals or families throughout the fund’s history. Without your support, we never could have reached our goal for helping less fortunate Newtown residents.”

Many of the items purchased for up to 100 individuals and families include winter coats, boots, blankets, and warm clothing for the cold months ahead. The names of the people receiving gifts are known only to Newtown’s Department of Social Services or local clergy members, who recommend residents to the fund and its holiday basket program. It is critical that enough funds be raised so no one goes without such vital items.

“We never know how many families we have until the end of November,” Ms Bates told The Newtown Bee last week. “They trickle in right up to the day sometimes.

Between families, couples, and individuals, the Holiday Basket Program serves “about 200 people,” Ms Bates added.

The Newtown Fund is also interested in contributions of “smalls” items, such as new toys for children and adult accessories.

Such items can be dropped off on December 14, or residents are invited to drop items into collection bins available in the businesses within Barnabas Plaza, 23 Barnabas Road. The Tenth Annual Hawleyville Tree Lighting event on Sunday, December 8, at that plaza, will also serve as a collection time for The Newtown Fund.

In addition to general donations, residents may consider making a tax deductible contribution to the fund as an expression of sympathy in memory of a loved one, a unique gift for a special occasion such as a wedding, or as a donation through an estate.

More information on The Newtown Fund and a link for tax-deductible contributions can be found on its website, thenewtownfund.org.

Contact Ms Bates at 203-426-5189 or lbatescps@aol.com for additional information or to volunteer for any aspect of Depot Day.