PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and individuals, this holiday season will be brighter for a number of needy area families who’ll benefit from the Presque Isle Kiwanis Club’s annual Community Christmas Basket project and toy drive.
Letters went out earlier this fall, with the club soliciting financial support for the program.
“This project is undertaken by the Kiwanis Club every year to provide food and gifts at Christmas for those families less fortunate than ourselves,” said Sherri Wilcox, project co-chair.
Wilcox said last year, in addition to food for 154 families, other items given to over 269 children included toys, gifts and mittens. She said public participation makes such efforts possible.
“We are very grateful for the community support that makes this project possible,” said Wilcox.
She said the club expects this year’s need will be just as great.
“We continue to ask for the community’s support,” Wilcox said.
John Graves, project co-chair, said contributions are welcomed each year in any amount.
“Our club intends to do its best to help our neighbors have an enjoyable Christmas. Donations are welcome in any amount that fits your budget,” said Graves.
Club members will distribute the toys and food baskets this week at the Recreation Department’s building on Riverside Drive.
“Toys can be picked up from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 15, at Riverside Drive, with food distribution taking place from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 18,” said Graves.
Graves said recipients are individuals who’ve visited the Rec Center and filled out applications, with those qualifying making the list for the food and toy giveaway.
“We have many repeat participants — families that just need a little extra help during the holidays. We sent letters out to businesses and citizens before Thanksgiving asking for contributions,” said Graves.
Children typically receive two gifts and a pair of mittens, and last year families also received games, puzzles, books and stuffed animals. Last year’s food distribution included a variety canned goods, a turkey and other items for each family.
The process is a joint effort between several area agencies who work together to make the season a bit brighter for friends and neighbors.
“Toys are made available through arrangements with the United Way of Aroostook, The Aroostook Medical Center, the Church of Jesus on Chapman Road, as well as Rathbun Lumber Company. Local school organizations including the Key Club and Honor Society also helped collect toys,” said Graves.
Items were taken to the building on Riverside on Monday, with volunteers busy wrapping and packing food boxes to be ready for the designated pick-up days.
Graves said the distribution day was changed to the weekend in recent years to allow more people an opportunity to volunteer.
“More people are available on the weekends. We just find a weekend pick-up date works best for everyone involved,” he said.
“We’re looking to serve 125-140 families. That represents over 200 children and about 150 adults,” Graves added.
While the Kiwanis Club expects most families to pick up toys and food at a designated location, Graves said for those who qualify, delivery is possible.
“For those approved and for shut-ins, delivery arrangements can be made,” said Graves.
Since the Kiwanis Club first became involved in the Christmas project in 1951, approximately 5,000 families have been served.
