LYNN — The spirit of giving is alive and well at the Boys & Girls Club of Lynn, thanks to the generosity of businesses and individuals who are ensuring that club members have a happy holiday season.
As part of the club’s annual Secret Snowman initiative, club members write on a paper snowman three gifts they want and three they need. Someone takes that snowman and purchases those gifts for that child.
There were 450 snowmen filled out this year by club members ages 5 to 18. Jodi Furlong, senior grants manager at the club, coordinated the effort.
Eastern Bank led the way, “adopting” 200 club members, an effort led by Senior Vice President Adriana Moschella, a BGCL board member. Approximately 150 Eastern employees from throughout the company participated, some taking more than one snowman.
“It was a team effort,” Moschella said. “The employees love shopping for the kids and the club did a good job having the kids list their wants and needs.”
Other companies that sponsored multiple children include Chroma Hair Studio in Melrose (60) Old Neighborhood Foods (50), DiVirgilio Homes REMAX 360 (50) and Shawn Burgo Heritage Home Services (25).
“We are sincerely grateful for all the businesses and individuals who contributed to this and other efforts,” said BGCL Executive Director Brian Therrien. “Whether someone adopted one child or 50, every gift matters and thanks to those who participated, hundreds of our members will have a happier holiday.”
In addition to Secret Snowman, club members will receive a gift thanks to the third annual Stuff a Cruiser toy drive run by the Nahant Police Department. Residents typically fill a police cruiser with donated toys, but this year a bigger vehicle – a Humvee – is being used. Each club member attending the Dec. 18 Christmas party will receive a gift.
Rick Rostoff also runs an annual toy drive for the Boys & Girls Club, with more than $5,600 worth of toys contributed last year.
“It’s gratifying to see the widespread support for our kids,” Therrien said.
Anyone wishing to participate in the Secret Snowman initiative can contact Furlong at [email protected] or call 781-593-1772.
