'Ceremonies and Celebrations' Program Underway In Westport

WESTPORT, CT — Human Services Director Elaine Daignault has announced the department’s "Ceremonies and Celebrations" program is now underway and will continue through the month of June. Developed in response to requests from school staff for assistance in purchasing new clothing for graduating middle and high school students, 2019 marks the program’s 16th year, according to a press release.

"Last year, 29 income-eligible Westport students were able to purchase new special event clothing for their graduations from middle and high school thanks to the generosity of individual donors, our school PTAs and the Fairfield County Assemblies," Daignault said in a release.

Daignault said her department had received numerous heartfelt notes of thanks and photographs of the proud young people as they walked across the stage or stood with their relatives on their special day.

The public can help fill the need for this year’s graduating students in need by making a tax-deductible donation. Donations will be gratefully accepted through June either online at the Department of Human Services portal on the town website by clicking the "WeCare Westport" icon or by check payable to "DHS Family Programs" (memo line: Ceremonies) and mailed to the Department. of Human Services, Westport Town Hall, Room 200, 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport, CT 06880 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.

Donations of gift cards of any amount (American Express, Visa, Master Card, Trumbull Mall/Westfield Shopping Center) are most welcome as well.

Those looking for that perfect year-end gift for a special teacher or school staff member, a donation in the staff member’s name to this special fund is a wonderful gesture. Donors are asked to note the teacher or honoree’s name in the memo line. A formal letter of acknowledgement will be mailed to the honored individual.

If residents are aware of a Westport student who could benefit from this program, please contact the Department of Human Services Family Program Coordinators at familyprograms@westportct.gov or 341-1050. DHS’s professional staff will work with the families to establish financial eligibility and determine further resources to assist them.

"While new clothing may seem trivial to some, many can attest to the power of dressing for success, especially on special occasions where small investments can enhance a young person’s self-esteem, mark new beginnings and celebrate their hard work despite financial challenges," Daignault said in a release. "To help a young person feel good about their appearance is a momentous gift that can impact them for a lifetime. Thank you in advance for helping families to celebrate the accomplishments of their children. Our community continues to make dreams come true through their generosity."