Volunteer Spotlight: Hartford-Norwich Holiday Basket Helpers Seek Sponsors

Hartford — The Hartford-Norwich Holiday Basket Helpers, which provides support for families and individuals in need during the holiday season, is looking for volunteers to buy presents for children whose families may have trouble purchasing gifts.

The organization receives referrals of children from schools and religious and other community groups, and parents are asked to list three clothing items and two toys that their children would enjoy. A volunteer sponsor then makes the tax-deductible purchases, ensuring that the youngsters have presents for the holiday.

“It really is rewarding to know that you’re helping a child in your own community,” Clare Forseth co-coordinator for volunteers, said in a telephone interview.

“We only deal with Norwich and Hartford families, so this is someone right in your neighborhood going through very difficult time financially,” Forseth said. “This is a way they know that they can give kids gifts for the holidays.”

Last year, the group sponsored 427 children in 184 families children during the holiday season. In addition, the organization provided gifts of food and gift cards to 158 seniors.

On average, sponsoring a child costs between $100 and $150  per child. Sponsors can give their preferences on the gender and age of the child they sponsor and coordinators will do their best to match the preferences.

Forseth said sponsoring a child is a perfect way for families to give back during the holiday and teach their own children about giving to others.

“It’s really wonderful for the sponsor to go out with their children and pick out things for (other) kids,” she said. “Kids know that they’re giving to someone who is going to enjoy those gifts. It’s a very nice family project knowing you’re helping someone in your community.”

Those interested in sponsoring a child can get more information and sign up by visiting holidaybasketsvt.org or emailing info@holidaybasketsvt.org. Gifts must be purchased by Dec. 5.