Since 1959, The Newtown Fund has supported residents in need by helping pay for food, fuel assistance, utility bills, rent, and medical expenses, in addition to its noteworthy Holiday Basket program in December.

Due to a number of reasons, such as the 2008 recession, changing town demographics, and rising costs, the organization's bottom-line safety net for emergencies that arise throughout the year is considerably lower than usual.

Linda Bates, president of The Newtown Fund, says for those reasons and others, the fund has started a mid-summer appeal for help.

"It is necessary that we launch a fundraising campaign at this time to replenish our funds so that no one who qualifies goes without," said Ms Bates. "We're very proud of all that The Newtown Fund has provided for our citizens over the past six decades," Ms Bates continued. "It gives our board members as well as all the 'Adopt-A-Family' volunteers a great deal of personal satisfaction knowing they are making the holidays so special for these gift recipients."

The Newtown Fund also works closely with the town's social services and youth services departments to fulfill other needs during the year.

Ms Bates suggests that in addition to a general donation, residents consider making a tax deductible contribution to the Newtown Fund as an expression of sympathy, in memory of a loved one, as a unique gift for a special occasion such as a wedding, or as a donation through an estate.

"With a charitable bequest in a will, the donor would be helping fellow residents for many years to come," she adds.

The Fund also greatly appreciates smaller items that can be added to the holiday baskets, such as new winter hats, scarves, gloves, and toiletries. At Thanksgiving time, the organization will be placing donation boxes around Newtown to collect smaller gift donations.

"So start putting these aside for the holidays," Ms Bates suggested.

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