Since 1959, The Newtown Fund has supported residents in need by helping pay for food, fuel assistance, utility bills, rent, and medical expenses, in addition to its noteworthy December Holiday Basket program. To ensure that those in need receive their special holiday gifts, Newtown Fund has kicked off a summer appeal for donations. Due to a number of reasons, such as the 2008 recession, changing town demographics, and rising costs, the organization's bottom-line safety net for emergencies that arise throughout the year is considerably lower than usual. "It is necessary that we launch a fundraising campaign at this time to replenish our funds so that no one who qualifies goes without," says Linda Bates, president of the organization.
"We're very proud of all that The Newtown Fund has provided for our citizens over the past six decades," explains Bates. "It gives our board members as well as all the 'Adopt-A-Family' volunteers a great deal of personal satisfaction knowing they are making the holidays so special for these gift recipients." The Newtown Fund also works closely with the town's social services and youth services departments to fulfill other needs during the year.
The Fund also greatly appreciates smaller items that can be added to the holiday baskets, such as new winter hats, scarves, gloves, and toiletries. At Thanksgiving time, the organization will be placing donation boxes around Newtown to collect smaller gift donations. "So start putting these aside for the holidays," Bates says. More information on The Newtown Fund and a link for tax-deductible contributions can be found on its website http://thenewtownfund.org/