With Christmas fast approaching and demand rising, Colonial Youth’s annual Holiday Food and Toy Drive faced an unexpected shortfall this week. But as word spread, generous donors quickly stepped in to help ensure families would not be left behind.
Colonial Youth has screened and approved 160 local families for Christmas assistance this year, while another 45 families remain on a waiting list. In addition to toys for children, the organization expanded its program to include food assistance. The challenge came when Long Island Cares notified Colonial that it would be unable to provide the expected 100 turkeys or hams.
“That news hit us hard,” said Fred Towle, Colonial Youth’s Food and Toy Drive Coordinator and a longtime leader of the program. “We had already committed to these families. Walking away was never an option.”
Towle, who has coordinated the drive for more than 15 years, immediately reached out to supporters. “This community has always stepped up when it mattered,” he said. “We just needed to ask.”
Within days, donations and pledges began arriving from residents, businesses, and community groups determined to close the gap. “People understood this wasn’t about numbers on a page,” Towle said. “It was about making sure kids have gifts to open and families have food on the table.”
Towle said the response reaffirmed why he has stayed involved for so long. “I’ve seen this drive grow over the years, but the heart behind it never changes,” he said. “When there’s a need, people here respond.”
Funds raised will be used to purchase holiday meals and complete toy packages for families still waiting. “Every dollar makes a difference right now,” Towle said. “Even small donations help us get across the finish line.”
Donations can be made payable to Colonial Youth, PO Box 391, Mastic Beach, NY 11951. Those wishing to help or get involved can contact Towle directly at 631-774-5430.
“We may have come up short at first,” Towle said, “but thanks to this community, these families won’t.”