Santa’s Sleigh to make holidays brighter

5 years ago

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — For more than 15 years, United Way of Aroostook has been helping to make the holidays brighter for children in Aroostook County.  Partners and many donors have donated toys, gifts and money to the United Way coordinated program “Santa’s Sleigh.”

This year, the United Way will be joined by Northern Light A.R. Gould Hospital, the Presque Isle Rotary and Kiwanis clubs and local businesses to ensure the success of the program.

But, as Sherry Locke, United Way executive director, said, “This program couldn’t provide as many toys and gifts as it does without the donors who help each and every year.”

The Santa’s Sleigh Team will have a float in the 29th annual Holiday Light Parade in Presque Isle on Saturday, Dec. 1. They will collect new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages, including teens.  

The team hopes to have the chance to thank many donors along the parade route as the gifts are collected. Gifts are also being collected at various places throughout the County but can also be dropped off in the big sleigh located at the Aroostook Centre Mall’s food court.

As in years past, just before Christmas, the Presque Isle Varsity Club will help the United Way sort and pack the toys for distribution to municipalities who’ve requested them for the children who need them in their community.  

Individuals seeking assistance should contact their local town offices.  

To support Santa’s Sleigh by donating, visit  https://cng.truist.com/CNGUWA/Pledge. For more information, call 764-5197.