Gifts For Canton Needed

When it comes to putting toys under the tree or even just food on the table, Ann Gagnon knows numerous families are struggling.

And around the holidays, many think of inner cities but people right in Canton need help, she said.

“Actually there is a large population in Canton that needs help as well,” she said.

And as chairwoman of the Canton Chamber of Commerce’s Gifts for Canton, Gagnon is worried that the drive is some $2,500 short of its gift certificate goal.

Time is short, with the distribution slated for Dec. 13. Gifts For Canton wants to give each family at least one — and ideally two — $25 gift cards for or other food stores. In addition, the goal is to give each older kid a card for places like or .

And tonight offers a chance to give as the chamber is hosting a Gifts for Canton Holiday Party, raffle and fundraiser at from 5 to 7:30 p.m. While there is a cost and encouraged registration to the event, residents can also drop off gift card or cash donations throughout the day or during the party, Gagnon said. (See other ways to donate at bottom of story).

While the gift card/cash need is more immediate, Gifts for Canton, is still accepting unwrapped toys as well. Donation boxes are located at various places throughout town and on Dec. 10 the Canton Police Department will host a event from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the .

The distribution will take place the morning of Dec. 13 at the Canton Food Bank spot, located at Trinity Episcopal Church. Proof of residency is required and gifts are for immediate family and the first-come, first-served distribution starts at 9:30 a.m. 

Last year, more than 60 families, with 180 kids in all needed help. By comparison, only 20 families came out in 2002. 

“That’s a lot of people in Canton,” she said. “(This year) I’m expecting a greater need.”

Gifts for Canton started in 1995 when Gagnon was president of the Chamber of Commerce.

Initially a collection box was placed in Dr. Charles Bonelli’s office. Now they are located throughout town and the drive has grown to include more and more events.

An official charity of the chamber, many organizations, such the Canton Lion’s Club, Rotary Club of Avon-Canton, as well as many citizens, help with the effort, Gagnon said.

Donations can be also dropped off at the Canton Chamber of Commerce 101 River Road Canton, CT 06019 (P.O. Box 704 Canton 06019) during office hours or by calling the chamber at 860-693-0405 or Gagnon at 860-693-4988 or 860-693-4170.