Christmas Caddy Brings More than 300 Toys

This past weekend Chandler Fowler held up her end of the bargain to collect unwrapped toys for the 's program. Through donations made at several locations around town as well as a big drive at on Sunday, Chandler was able to collect more than 300 toys.

Her father, Assistant Deputy Police Chief Thomas Fowler said, "We could not believe how generous everyone was. She delivered almost 300 toys to the counseling center and had several hundred dollars in donations she is going to convert into toys... Overall, very successful!"

As homage to her late grandfather Bruce Pantani, Chandler filled his 1965 cherry red convertible Cadillac Coupe de Ville with toys for the big delivery. The brimming car was dubbed "." She hopes this event, which was dreamed up as her Senior Capstone Project, will continue for years to come.

"She, and we, as a family, are very grateful for the enormous generosity the people of Branford showed for this cause," said her father.

Pat Andriole of the Branford Counseling Center noted before the collection that the toys would be used to supplement the Adopt-A-Family packages as well as for those who come late to the program but need toys for their children this holiday season.

The Counseling Center is also accepting monetary donations to the center's Basic Needs Program, which provides rent and utility assistance to Branford families as well emergency shelter needs. Make checks payable to Branford Counseling Center and note Basic Needs in the memo.