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01/11/2020 11:00 PMWith support from local shoppers, over two dozen Branford merchants took their holiday wreath decorating to the next level in 2019, raising $2,308 for Feed Branford Kids (FBK) along the way. Branford downtown merchants' third annual Wreath Extravaganza nearly doubled the money raised in 2018, when the event generated $1,300 for FBK.
The extravaganza event was sponsored by the Branford Economic Development Commission and Discover Branford (www.discoverbranford.com). Branford First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove said the annual event is growing, and a win-win-win for FBK, the participating merchants and community members who shop local.
"It's supported a great cause for the last three years, and it just seems to be growing," said Cosgrove. "It's a tremendous success because it's not only for a great cause, but because it also helps to remind everyone to get out there and support local merchants."
Between Nov. 26 and Dec. 7, 2019, shoppers visiting participating businesses, shops and restaurants had the chance to bid on a total of 27 different wreaths, each budding with gifts, gift cards and goods particular to the Branford businesses where it was on display. All of the businesses decorated fresh evergreen wreaths donated by Vaisuo Farms Inc. of Branford.
"They all did a great job decorating their own wreaths and displaying them for people to bid on," said event co-coordinator Trista Milici, Branford First Selectman's executive assistant.
Branford business owner Anna Feniola of Polished Boutique and Branford Blackstone Library Director Karen Jensen once again also participated as co-coordinaters of the program.
"Three years ago, Karen brought us the wreath idea, and we thought it was a good idea," said Feniola. "And when we were deciding on what organization to help, I said, 'Christmas is for children.' And we wanted the money to stay in town, so that's how we connected it with Feed Branford Kids."
Founded in 2014, non-profit, 100 percent volunteer FBK provides wholesome and nutritious take-home meals each weekend to well over 200 Branford school children during the school year. FBK provides each child with two breakfasts, two entrees, two servings of milk and juice and several snacks, packed to take home in their backpacks each Friday.
FBK board president Kristine Klarman said the Wreaths Extravaganza program is a perfect event for Branford because it supports FBK and helps build community support for hometown businesses.
"It's a nice community event," said Klarman. "The merchants give something that goes to a cause in town, and they get something out of it, too. It all stays in the town."
Milici noted one reason for the program's record-breaking year in 2019 was the event's top bidder, Carolyn Sires. The Branford resident won the bidding for several wreaths, donating over $1,000 as a result, said Milici.
Sires said she always finds quality items, goods and services at Branford's local businesses and encourages others in the community buy locally, too. Sires also serves on the Branford Representative Town Meeting (R, District 5).
"I went into every store, and every store had something I need. I love it; and I really encourage people to support our local stores," said Sires.
Participating 2019 Branford businesses and organizations in the Main Street and downtown areas were Featherly Ever After, Coldwell Banker, Common Grounds, Better Ways, Ashley's Ice Cream, Fired Up!, Myers Flower Shop, P.S. Fine Stationers, Polished Boutique, Possessions, Richlin Home & Auto, soundRUNNER, Sweets on Main, Beneath the Gown, Town Hall Town Clerks' Office, The Village Express, Real Living Wareck D'Ostilio, G Cafe, Vicky & Co., Pasta Cosi, Home Restaurant, Salon Refuge, Pinky Nails, Down-Towne Medical Equipment, Allusions Salon and Boutique, and James Blackstone Memorial Library.
To help continue supporting FBK, the Branford Town Clerk's office at Town Hall will continue to act as a designated FBK drop-off point for donated, single-serving food items needed by the program, said Town Clerk Lisa Arpin. Suggested contributions include non-perishable single-serve snacks such as small boxes of raisins, pudding cups, fruit cups, cheese crackers, pretzels and granola bars; and single-serve meal items such as cereal, juice, canned meat, macaroni & cheese, peanut butter, soups and tuna.
Monetary contributions to help FBK purchase food to fill backpacks are always welcomed by the non-profit, Klarman noted. Donations can be made on line at https://feedbranfordkids.net/