(Sauquoit, NY – Dec. 6, 2013) – ‘Tis the season for giving, and for the Sauquoit Valley Optimist Club, part of that spirit includes keeping their community warmer and safer this winter. They hope to accomplish this by collecting plenty of cozy winter outerwear during this year’s Hats, Mittens and Gloves Toss.
While thinking of ways they could provide some hands-on help for those in need in the Sauquoit community, Kevin Fahy, a member of the Sauquoit Valley Optimist Club, came up with the idea for the toss, which will be held this year on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at the Sauquoit boys’ basketball game. After the first Sauquoit basket is scored during the second half of the game, attendees are encouraged to toss new hats, mittens and gloves of all sizes onto the court. Children participating in the Optimist basketball program will collect all of the items donated that evening.
“Last year when we started this event, we weren’t sure how well it would do,” Fahy said. “The response we received was overwhelming, and we collected numerous items last year. We hope for even greater success this year, and look forward to being able to help our neighbors in need stay warmer this winter.”
The proceeds from the Hats, Mittens and Gloves Toss will be given to Sauquoit Valley Friends and Neighbors, an organization that provides assistance to families in crisis within the Sauquoit Valley community and Sauquoit school system, and maintains a food bank and thrift store. Sauquoit Valley Friends and Neighbors will distribute the items collected at the game to local families in need.