The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
Community volunteers ‘adopt’ families in need
MIDDLETOWN — Representatives of several local groups joined efforts last week for the culmination of the annual AdoptA-Family program, which pairs community volunteers with needy families around the holidays.
Members of the South Fire District IAFF Local 3918, Connecticut Valley Hospital Police, Middletown High School Jazz Band & Choral Club, Fellowship Church congregation and choir, and Middletown Elks Lodge #771 held the gift-presenting program Sunday.
It is a joint venture between the South Fire District union and Middletown Elks, according to a news release.
The event was kicked off by a visit and welcome remarks from Middletown Common Councilman and Elks Trustee Gerry Daley.
Again this year, multiple families from the Middletown community were “adopted” by area first responders. Gifts and food were collected by South Fire personnel, their sponsors and Elks members, delivered to the lodge, and then presented to the families.
Santa, riding on the South Fire apparatus, greeted a group of children waiting for Santa’s arrival, the release said.
Consistent with the Elks motto of “Elks Care, Elks Share,” the Elks several years ago joined the program. Again this year, the local chapter received an Elks National Foundation Community Grant which helped purchase gifts.
The Elks also hosted a welcome reception for the families and volunteers.
The Adopt-A-Family program began over 20 years ago by Middletown Police Officer Rob Siena, who wanted to help families in need during the Christmas season, according to the Elks.