As coordinators of the “Giving Tree Project”, we would once again like to thank everyone who participated in any way. This project provides gifts for children in our communities whose families need a little extra help during the holiday season, and it definitely “takes a village” to make it happen. Again the undertaking was a bit more challenging this year due to continued health concerns, but we were still able to make it happen in a way that was safe for everyone.

This project wouldn’t have happened without the support of SO MANY! The congregations of the First Congregational Church of Walpole and St. John’s Episcopal Church took tags, purchased gifts, and gave many donations. The Savings Bank of Walpole, Mascoma Bank, the Walpole Public Library, The Hungry Diner, and Spencer’s Place also displayed tags, and many employees and community members purchased gifts or gave donations. The “Toys for Tots” program donated approximately 150 gifts so that parents could choose 2 more gifts for each child, plus we received a donation of hand-knitted hats, scarves, mittens, and booties from Priscilla Rodgers. The “Walpole Firefighters’ Auxiliary” and “The Community Fund” both made generous monetary donations, and Ocean State Job Lot and Mr. G’s donated wrapping paper, tags, and tape so that parents could wrap the gifts for their children. The “Chaos and Kindness” store also donated sweatshirts for 2 young people who specifically requested them. Last but not least, Jana Sellarole, Janet Frances, Colby Smith, and Becca Bates volunteered their time to help us sort, organize, and bag up the gifts prior to parent pickup day; this is a very big job and their help was very much appreciated. Any remaining toys were delivered to the Fall Mt. Food Shelf, and any remaining wrapping paper or donation $ has been set aside for next year.

When all was said and done, we provided many holiday gifts for 25 local families (approximately 75 children). THANK YOU to everyone who helped with this amazing project. You made a lot of children very happy and made their 2021 holiday a lot brighter! This is a clear demonstration of the true meaning of the holiday season, and a wonderful testament to the generosity of our community. Thank you all so very much!

We wish you all an enjoyable holiday season and a healthy, happy, and peaceful year in 2022!

Jeanne Cloues and Marcia Weil Walpole Community Giving Tree