YOU’RE (NOT) A MEAN ONE, MR. GRINCH
Character leaves Whoville to spread Christmas cheer in Ridgefield
RIDGEFIELD — Sightings of a local man dressed as Dr. Seuss’ famous character The Grinch sneaking up to porches and leaving little surprises are surfacing all over Facebook.
Residents are posting videos from doorbell cameras and more showing how the Ridgefield Grinch is leaving many with some holiday cheer this year.
This is the first year Ridgefield is seeing a mysterious Mr. Grinch prance around. The modern-day Grinch came out of hiding to give children a reason to smile during the ongoing crisis. He first appeared on Facebook, creating a page where residents can see what he is up to or message him for a visit.
Mr. Grinch has since teamed up with the Ridgefield Police Department and town to continue his mission.
Every night the Grinch posts what streets he will be on and drives around in his Grinchmobile full of toys, stopping at nearly 50 houses. He tiptoes over to the nearest porch or door and drops a gift before stealthily sneaking away, though some people have managed to snap a quick photo with him.
The Grinch has not revealed
his identity, but told Hearst Connecticut Media that the response to his appearances has been “unbelievable,” and he will be busy through Christmas.
“If there’s one way we can give back to the community we live in, this was the way we thought fit best. Due to the response we had, we’re definitely going to try to make a purpose out of it,” the Grinch said.
Mr. Grinch is keeping his identity a secret in the name of Christmas spirit, despite being seen tinkering around neighborhoods.
He said his mission isn’t about him.
“The Grinch does not plan on revealing his true identity. It’s not about me,” he said. “When you get back from a 30-house run and see all these pictures posted on the page ... just to see them [children] smiling and trying to take their minds off everything going on this year, that’s what it’s really about.”
After completing his Christmas rounds in Ridgefield, he plans on going back into hiding until next season.