Even before COVID, it was our mantra: “Buy local.”
Since the pandemic, we’ve paid even more attention to the importance of supporting the men and women who — against ever-more daunting odds — make this town go.
They stock stuff we need. They employ our kids and grandparents. They support every school and civic fundraiser. They answer our calls. They know our names.
And — this is really cool — they support each other. I posted this story last weekend, but it might have gotten lost over the holiday. So here it is again:
There’s a new Christmas tree on Main Street, right next to the old Tavern on Main restaurant. But it’s more than just a handsome holiday sight.
Annette Norton — owner of the nearby Savvy + Grace gift shop — works with the Ralphola Taylor Charity, a YMCA community center serving low-income Bridgeport children. They earn points for good behavior during after-school activities, then redeem those points at the center’s Holiday Store by buying presents for their families.
Annette Norton and the Christmas tree, near Savvy + Grace.
In return for purchasing a gift for the Ralphola Taylor Charity, Annette will personalize a white dove ornament with the donor’s name, and hang it on the tree.
Gifts can be bought 3 ways:
- At Savvy + Grace (next to the former Tavern on Main restaurant)
- Online (at checkout, just choose free delivery to the charity)
- Purchase something from any other local store, then drop it off at Savvy + Grace. What a great way to support all Westport merchants, and kids in Bridgeport.
Donations are accepted now through Monday, December 7.
How great that Annette wants you to purchase a gift at any local store. And how wonderful that she’s a local merchant.
Which is why Annette Norton — and all Westport business owners, struggling but still giving in this holiday season — are this week’s Unsung Heroes.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email dwoog@optonline.net)