Deep River Community Health Committee Gives Big This Season

DEEP RIVER, CT — Desperation abounds this holiday season as the economy is still struggling and many are without jobs. In response to local conditions, the Deep River Community Health Committee has decided to purchase $6000 worth of Walmart and Adams Grocery store gift cards, in varying denominations, to be given to Deep River's social services department, to ensure that no family goes without for the holidays.

“This year, the need is greater than ever before,” said Russell Marth who was voted in again as the Committee’s chairman at the December 1, meeting. "In the past, there have been several places that have collected toys for tots in their lobbies and waiting rooms, but this year there is none of that, because of the virus, so there is a real need, especially for toys for the kids.”

Rosie Bininger, the Social Services Director for the town of Deep River, explained that there have been several residents who are disappointed this year that they can’t buy toys for those in need.

“It’s only one year that we have to sacrifice things like the toy drive, for the good of everyone. The funny thing is that the people who are most upset are the people who donate. They so enjoy buying the toys, donating and giving. Hopefully, things will be back to normal next year."

In place of donated toys, the choice has been made to give families gift cards so they can purchase their own toys and gifts this year. Bininger said there is a surge of about 40 percent more families, in need, in town this year, than in years past.

“I am seeing people I have never seen before, as well as the regulars,” said Bininger. “It’s sad, but it’s hard to get a job right now during COVID and times are tough for many families.”

The Committee’s allocation of $6000 for gift cards this year is more than double what has been donated in the past, however, the committee feels the need is warranted and due to lack of other fundraisers and toy drives this may be the only assistance given to those in need, in town, for the holidays.

“More is better in this scenario,” said Committee member Joanna Giuliano. "This year we need to think bigger; outside the box and put more money in to play the best way possible."

“We can share more resources this year because we have more help (i.e. donations) than ever, this year, due to the Liberty Bank/Rotary Club Thanksgiving drive, and also because of the outpouring of donations from many of our private citizens, and lots of our commercial entities, as well,” said Marth. “Our town is full (and I mean full) of extremely generous folks. This makes our job easier.”

He added, “We are trying to ensure that everyone has a happy holiday. Families get some food on the table and maybe a gift or two for the youngsters.”

Food is only about half of what the Community Health Committee does. For the past ten years, it has an ongoing fund that it works to replenish each year, so social services have the ability to help families experiencing financial hardships, with emergency heat, food, clothing, glasses and more.

If you are interested in giving, monetary donations are being accepted at; Deep River Community Fund

C/O Deep River Town Hall

174 Main Street

Deep River, CT. 06417