East Haddam shows generous heart with Stuff a Cruiser donations

Helping with the Dec. 9 2012 Stuff-a-Cruiser event are (L-R) East Haddam CT Police Explorers Chloe Dicosino and Rachel Lawrence, and Officers Tom Griffith and Karl Karabeinikoff. Photo copyright 2012 by Jean Maheu for HTNP.com

Even though many in this state continue to struggle financially, this didn’t keep many kind-hearted residents from turning out with gifts and monetary donations for this past weekend’s Stuff-a-Cruiser collection.

Dozens of toys were contributed to brighten the holidays for local children in need, from stuffed animals to tricycles.

The rainy day did seem put a little bit of a damper on the collection, compared with last year, said East Haddam Officer Karl Karabeinikoff.

Even though many people are still struggling with a tough economy, East Haddam residents proved themselves to be very generous, not only donating new unwrapped toys for local children in need but stopping by the Dec. 9, 2012 Stuff-a-Cruiser event with monetary donations. Photo copyright 2012 by Jean Maheu for HTNP.com

“Everyone is still struggling, so it’s nice that people are still so generous,” he said.

Those who still want to participate can make donations of new, unwrapped toys or financial donations to the East Haddam Youth and Family Services, which will be distributing the gifts.

“They will accept donations for a little while longer,” Karabeinikoff said. (For more information, 860-873-3296 during town office hours.)

The offices are located at 387 East Haddam-Moodus Road, in the Moodus section of East Haddam.

Parents or guardians of children from infants to age 18 who live in the East Haddam/Moodus community and are in need of gifts are also encouraged to contact EHYFS at 860-873-3296.

Also helping to collect toys this weekend were Officer Tom Griffith and Police Explorers Chloe Dicosnio and Rachel Lawrence.

Karabeinikoff said this kind of drive helps put him in the Christmas spirit.  He also looks forward to helping Big Brothers/Big Sisters deliver gifts all over the New Haven area. “That always makes me feel good,” he said.

Posted December 11, 2012

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