EachChristmas,theEnos/ Cardinal Cove Volunteer Fire Department, along with help from volunteers like Alice Tomlinson and Kathy Caldwell, host a community food and toy drive for local children, teens, and seniors. Christmas for kids and seniors has been taking place for about 20 years and continuestogrowinsize,with both those in need and those donating. Caldwell said the need in the area has multiplied over the years.
“In years past, there were maybe less than 10 senior citizens that are on our list. This year we had the most thatwehaveeverhad.Which was about 15,” Caldwell said. “There really are not too many people in the area that do this type of outreach and there are a lot of people who need it in the community.”
Starting in November of each year, anybody can pick up applications at the Enos/ Cardinal Cove Fire Department. Anyone is welcome to pick up the application to say who they know needs assistance with anything from toys and gifts for children and teens to families and seniors who need food, hygiene products, socks, and things as simple as a warm blanket.
There are those in the communitywholookforward to this act of kindness each year. Through monetary donations, donated food items along with toys and other gifts for teenagers, the Christmas for Kids and Seniors is able to provide for everyone on their list.
Local businesses hosted donation boxes for items to be dropped off over the last two months. Caldwell said there is even a raffle for items and services donated by local Enos,Kingston,andCardinal Cove businesses each year which is the main way funds are raised to buy everything that is needed.
“This year, we had one volunteer alone raise about $400 selling raffle tickets,” she said.
The culmination of this annual event is a community parade that takes place. Anyone in the community is welcome to be in the parade, the entry fee is a donated item. This year's parade was held on the morning of December 9. Caldwell and other volunteers said they are thankful for the help they receive.
“We are so appreciative of all the support of the community. We could not do this without their support.”