Christmas Caddy: Thank You, Branford, for Your 'Overwhelming Support'

The following is an open letter from the Christmas Caddy organizers to the residents of Branford. 

To the Editor:

The families of the Christmas Caddy would like to thank all of our friends in Branford for the overwhelming support shown to us in our efforts to assist the local families that rely on the services of the Branford Counseling Center.

Ant farms to Xylophones, Bicycles and board games, footballs to fishing poles. Books, baby dolls, and Barbies. Craft sets, coloring books, skateboards, scooters, electric trains, RC cars, and even a giant Mister Potato Head. There is something delivered by our big red Caddy to brighten any kids Christmas.

Each year we strive to exceed our previous year’s donation and this year was no exception. We delivered over 1000 toys to the Branford Counseling Center which will allow them to provide a happier holiday to a record number of families this season.

The generosity of everyone that donated to this wonderful cause is humbling to our family but one outstanding individual needs to be recognized for his unselfish contribution.

On Sunday afternoon young Kyle Givner and his family arrived with a car full of toys he wanted us to have. We discovered that Kyle chose to donate all of the gifts he had received at his 10th birthday party to others that weren’t as fortunate as him. Kyle didn’t tell us this. He didn’t think it noteworthy, not worth mentioning. His proud parents explained the situation to us as we all stood with tears in our eyes.

Kyle and young people like him will be those making a difference going forward, sharing the lessons they’ve been taught by their families and this remarkable community.

We saw the same thing over and over during the weekend. People wanting to help other Branford residents dealing with difficult circumstances in whatever way they could be it a simple toy, a bag full of toys, a gift card, or a small cash donation.

And we thank you all.

The Christmas Caddy has been invited back to Walmart for one more day to be sure no child goes unrecognized this Christmas.

We all like to think about the little ones at Christmas but the Branford Counseling Center has informed us that there is a shortage gifts for teens, so if you would like to contribute please keep that in mind.

We’ll be there on:

• Saturday Dec. 14th from 11:00 - 2:00

• Sunday Dec. 15th from 11:00 – 2:00

We’re forever grateful for your ongoing support.

The Pantani, Angelo and Fowler families