Another successful clothing giveaway supports our community

By Brian, with photos from Andrea and Susan

The Circle of Friends fall giveaway was a great success! Our generous donors once again provided us with a large stock of winter clothing, toys, and some household goods. We set up in the parking lot beside the Rectory House, and the volume was such that we had to borrow two tables from the church hall to supplement the dozen tables, racks, and stands (and the entire chain link fence) we usually use to display our wares.

We counted 280 visitors to the site and they clearly appreciated the effort. 75-80 large liner bags of clothing, including 30-40 winter coats, jackets and snowsuits – enough to fill a delivery van – were given away over the course of the event. The collage below illustrates how quickly the donations were taken up. While it was deeply satisfying to assist so many, it is sad to note that the need for such outreach efforts seems to be greater than ever.

An amazing group of thirty volunteers, including several from the Rectory House, came forward to make the event happen. They went out of their way to make everyone feel welcome, helped them find what they needed, and worked hard to keep our tables stocked. The extra hands also made setting up the giveaway and restoring the site smoother and easier than in the past. The atmosphere was friendly and relaxed. Our very talented mother-daughter team of face painters returned, to the evident delight of the children – and their parents – who flocked to take up the offer of free decoration.

A heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, directly or indirectly. It was really your event, and you deserve the appreciation of the entire community.