CSA GETS INVOLVED AGAIN!
For the 3rd year in a row, the CSA was involved in a Christmas Basket distribution for 50 local families with handicapped children. Funds were raised in part at the CSA 2nd Annual Christmas Craft and Bake sale in November. The CSA had a table with pelicans they made of recycled coconuts, baked goods donated by members and friends as well as the proceeds of the raffle contributed to funding this specific activity. Many chose as well to give personal donations which helped the tally. With a few trips to stores to see who had the best price on goods listed on a 'must have list', Maureen and her team were ready to shop. Special thanks to Super Extra in Chorrera who matched the best prices and included an additional discount. Susannah from Him's was instrumental in organizing a contact with a wholesaler for bulk purchasing and also covered the costs of the rice, beans, sugar and flour. Along with the additional donations from Geise family members of soap, socks, pencils, erasers and pens and a box full of toys donated by friends of John and Rene's, the Red Christmas bags (donated by El Rey) were soon stuffed to the max. with much needed goodies.
Many volunteers congregated at Rene's home on Saturday, to put everything together and then finally move them to the party.
The party was organized by Senora Maribel, a well known personality in San Carlos. Maribel opened her home and arranged for many of these families to be driven to the fiesta. Her group of helpers prepared a table of gifts for the children which included clothing and toys. After a warm thank you to the group, some singing and a prayer from the local minister, everyone was treated to a delicious home made plate of baked chicken, potato salad, fresh grapes, soft drinks, cake and ice cream. A tasty treat!
Each child received a plush toy distributed by our own Molly who did a terrific job on choosing the right toy that would put on the biggest smile on each child's face. Everyone had a great time and enjoyed their day. Next year the CSA will start fund raising activities in June so that they can reach more families in need. Be on the look out for special events.
A grand thank you to Rene, John, Maureen, Roberta, Joyce, Bonnie, Jack, Dolores, Kathie, Barbara, Louise, Margaret, Molly, Tom, Leslie, Eldon and everyone else who participated to make this a heartwarming event and help the community we live in.
Please see the pictures of the event ending with a signed thank you from one of the little girl that just received her hearing aids.
A merry Christmas to all!
