It started out as “Make a Difference Day.” Now, the Westport event spans the entire month of October.
The goal is for volunteers to help local non-profits. They register their projects; willing hands are then matched with needs.
To register a project — or volunteer for one — click here.
It’s a month-long event — but Saturday, October 26 is special. Volunteers will gather at Christ & Holy Trinity Church at 9 a.m. They’ll assemble toiletry bags for homeless men, comfort bags for abused women, arts and craft kits for children in need, and Hug a Senior bags.
Click here for the full Make a Difference Day Month website. For more information, call Barbara Pearson-Rac: 203-226-1390.
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Meanwhile, it’s not even Halloween. But Westport’s Department of Human Services is already thinking about the holidays.
They see a side of town most Westporters never do. The Town Hall staff knows our neighbors are coping with layoffs, reduced work hours, even foreclosures.
For years, Human Services has facilitated a Holiday Giving Program. It’s as important today as it ever was.
Residents can donate grocery and gas gift cards of any amount, as well as gift cards to local stores.
Cash donations are always welcome. They allow for the purchase of last-minute gift cards for clients. Residents who wish to shop for a family’s actual gift requests can do so, at whatever level the donor feels comfortable.
Organizations — including non-profits, religious institutions and businesses — can donate too.
The more the “merrier,” for sure.
(To donate online, click here; select “Holiday Giving” in the the “Seasonal Program” dropdown prompt. Checks made payable to “DHS Family Programs” — with “Holiday” on the memo line — may be mailed to Human Services, c/o Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880, or dropped off there in Room 200. For more information, email familyprograms@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-1183. Families that need support during the holidays should call 203-341-1050.)
