LYNN — Based on the number of presents lining the hallways of the Boys & Girls Club of Lynn, club members have been very good this year.
Thanks to the generosity of area businesses and individuals, 467 BGCL members are receiving a total of almost 5,000 gifts as part of the club’s annual Secret Snowmen 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.
Including siblings, gifts were purchased for children aged 1-18, according to Jodi Furlong, senior grants manager at the club, who has coordinated the effort for 16 years.
“It was our biggest year ever,” Furlong said. “People were especially generous this year, and the kids greatly appreciate it.”
Eastern Bank again led the way, selecting 200 club members to buy presents for, an effort led by senior vice president Adriana Moschella, BGCL board president. More than 100 Eastern employees participated, some taking more than one snowman.
“The employees love shopping for the kids, and the club does a good job of having the kids list their wants and needs. It’s a real team effort,” Moschella said.
Other companies that sponsored multiple children include DiVirgilio Homes REMAX 360 (50), Maria O’Neill/Chroma Hair Studio (45), Heritage Home Service Heritage Helps Foundation (30), and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (24).
“We are sincerely grateful for all the businesses and individuals who contributed to this and other efforts to make it a happy holiday for our members,” said BGCL Executive Director Brian Theirrien. “Every gift matters, and having this kind of support in the community makes our job easier. We appreciate the partnership.”
In addition to Secret Snowmen, club members will receive a gift from the fourth annual Stuff a Cruiser toy drive run by the Nahant Police Department. Residents fill a Humvee with donated toys. Each club member who attends the Dec. 17 holiday party will receive a gift.
“It’s heartwarming to see this widespread support for our kids,” Theirrien said.
