Now that the holiday season has passed, it's time to reflect on Laraway's enormous sense of gratitude towards a kind and caring community. The children and families we serve enjoyed a brighter, happier holiday due to the generosity of many, many individuals and businesses. Although all donors will be acknowledged in our March newsletter, we share a few anecdotes below.
Every child in Laraway's Backpack Program received a brand new Burton jacket with hat and gloves thanks to the kindness of Burton Snowboards. One Laraway mother lamented that her teenaged son never wore his winter coat. Well, things changed when this young man received his spiffy new threads. He wears his warm, new coat...with pride.
A group of community friends got together to donate new and gently used items for Laraway School's Annual Holiday Store. Each student, with help from Laraway's "elves" was able to choose and wrap gifts for family members from the beautifully arranged selection of books, tea mugs, toys and brand new pairs of winter socks.
Local ski areas including Smugglers' Notch, Craftsbury Outdoor Center and Bolton Valley all donated tickets for youth in Laraway's foster care program to get out on the trails. Skiing is fun...and therapeutic.
We are humbled by the many expressions of generosity and look forward to a positive 2015 as we continue our work with kids and families.
