Knights Of Columbus Helped Santa

On two nights last month, the St Rose Knights of Columbus held their annual toy distribution event to help families in need to celebrate Christmas by providing toys, books, puzzles, and other items for them to give to their children on Christmas morning.

The first night of the event, which was held at Edmond Town Hall, was reserved for local and regional charities. Representative “shoppers” from more than a dozen organizations were able to fill their wish lists from a wide array of donated items. Christmas music playing in the background gave the event an air of festivity, and many happy shoppers expressed gratitude for the Knights’ work.

The second evening was open to all Newtown residents. Again, volunteers provided assistance and Christmas music played in the background. Many residents combed through the gifts, which had been replenished thanks to the efforts of the Knights of Columbus and The Toy Tree in Sandy Hook.

More volunteers showed up in traditional Santa hats or whimsical elf hats.

“The mood was wonderfully cheerful,” said K of C Toy Closet Director Michael Salvatore. “Nobody indicated where two fresh-cut Christmas trees came from, but one of them found a new home and was whisked away by a happy group.”

Once the two distribution nights were finished, many of the remaining toys were sent to Haiti by airlift to a Catholic diocese in that country.

“The Newtown Knights would like to thank their many supporters and volunteers for their help,” said Mr Salvatore. “The spirit of Christmas was truly present in this event, and in everyone who either gave volunteer hours or donated gifts.

“We extend to you our great thanks, and eagerly look forward to doing it all again next year.”