Hope for the Holidays, Operation Hope’s annual volunteer-run program where local organizations, schools, families and individuals “adopt” families and individuals who we serve, is a wrap for 2019! We are in awe and deeply appreciative of this year’s tremendous response from the community. 102 “sponsors” and/or friends who purchased gifts adopted 43 families and 68 adult individuals, showering them with holiday gifts, clothing, basic necessities and gift cards based on “wish lists.” In addition to gifts and necessities, wrapping paper is generously donated to help make the holidays a little brighter for our neighbors in need.
Our many “elves” (posted below, apologies for any omissions) spent a few days last week sorting, wrapping and delivering gifts requested by Operation Hope’s clients. 100 volunteers of all ages pitched in to organize and wrap gifts at St. Anthony of Padua Church on South Pine Creek Road. St. Anthony’s kindly allowed us to the use the space for our “workshop.”
–NCL Fairfield & Redding chapters
–SASO Girls & Moms and SASO Boys & Moms
-Sherman Elementary School Girl Scouts
-Starbucks Fairfield County region
-Jackie Davis with Wiliam Raveis
-St. Anthony’s volunteers
-Bridgeport Hospital volunteers
-Priceline employees
–AMS Planning and Research
-Mica Corporation
-HJ Sims
-Returning volunteers from years past and new volunteers
A few of the groups who generously served as sponsors:
-3 5th grade classes at Sherman Elementary School
-Fairfield Dermatology
-Starbucks
-Builders Beyond Borders
–SFP youth group at Greenfield Hill Congregational Church
-Fairfield Ludlowe HS Key Club
-Citizens Bank
-Little Helpers of Fairfield
-Dozens of individuals and community groups
We are grateful for the outpouring of generosity from our many friends in the community. From donating gifts to volunteering to sort, wrap and deliver gifts, each one of you demonstrates that the spirit of the holidays is alive and well here in Fairfield! And to our very own “angel,” Evie Angel, who once again ran the show this year, thank you for your heartfelt dedication and making this holiday special for our clients. We wish you and your loved ones a happy and safe holiday!