Rejoicing in Seekonk

In his classic tale “A Christmas Carol”, Charles Dickens observed that “It is at Christmastime that ‘want’ is most keenly felt, and ‘abundance’ rejoices.” This Christmas, ‘abundance’ rejoiced in Seekonk, thanks to the combined contributions of hundreds of local people who made donations of food, toys, or funds in support of their neighbors in need.

The McGovern family toy drive has become an annual blessing to Doorways families, allowing parents and grandparents alike to select from among hundreds of toys to become the Christmas morning delights for children who otherwise might do without. Over the past eight years, thousands of toys have been distributed through the efforts of the McGovern family, their extended family, neighbors, and friends. This year was no exception, with toys and games selected for over 90 children, more than half of whom were under the age of 10. Hundreds of toys went out the door that morning, wiping out the accumulation of many weeks. A few days later, another massive donation of toys arrived from the “Over 50 Fun, Food and Fit” social group, allowing us to provide toys for another 30 children whose parents had missed the toy distribution of the week before. Talk about Christmas magic!

There were also donations of food in abundance, from local schools, restaurants, and numerous private citizens who pulled up and popped their trunks full of purchased groceries. One local seamstress knitted dozens of hats and scarves to keep our neighbors warm. Daisy Troop 402 delivered a great load of food one Saturday, and the Pods Mermaids from Rumford filled an SUV with food at their Christmas luncheon. The spirit of giving is alive and well in the Seekonk community.

The other thing in abundance is families relying on Doorways for help in making ends meet. In the last year, Doorways provided food support for over 5,500 people. There are currently over 80 needy families shopping at Doorways on a routine basis – a dramatic rise from the levels of only a year or two ago. Every week, hundreds of bags of groceries – including meat, produce, eggs and cheese – are provided to Doorways families, all at no cost to our client neighbors. This is only possible because of the amazing support provided by the people of our community. Our gratitude is boundless - we are humbled by your support, awed by your generosity, and hopeful for the future. We give thanks for all you do.

In closing, let me quote Charles Dickens once again: “God bless us all, everyone!”