Woman and Teenage Son Seek Donations to Help Homeless This Christmas Through Bag Donations

You may have seen her waiting tables at The Sesame Seed in Danbury, or running in a marathon in Ridgefield or New York City. She has an amazing head of dreadlocks, a warm smile and a positive and uplifting message to share with all those lucky enough to be in her presence.

Heather Roles, a local mom and avid runner, grew up in Bethel and now lives in Danbury with her teenage son. She is on a mission to spread holiday cheer this season by giving messenger bags and purses filled with toiletries, gifts and gift cards to those living on the streets in Danbury and Norwalk.

Roles and her 14-year-old son Elijah are asking for donations from the public to help those less fortunate this holiday season. Sharing a quote from B. C. Forbes on her Facebook page, Roles wrote:

“Christmas is a tonic for our souls. It moves us to think of others rather than of ourselves. It directs our thoughts to giving.” ~ B. C. Forbes

She continued:

“I’m looking for donations of a few gently used pocketbooks and bags ( messenger bags or masculine type pack too for men) as well as things to put in them- inexpensive gloves. Five / ten dollar Dunkin Donut cards, ten dollar grocery cards, Advil, pain reliever, personal items. Keep it simple, basic and USEABLE to someone living on the street . Please message me if you have anything to spare .Elijah and I will be giving out bags on Tuesday and also on Christmas morning here in the Danbury and Norwalk area.”

Donations are being accepted at Molten Java, 211 Greenwood Ave., Bethel during normal store hours. For more information or more drop locations, email wendy.mitchell@patch.com.

Photo: Heather Roles