Cadets helping Community Action Program
Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith requests the assistance of the citizens of Putnam County in supporting the Putnam Community Action Program (CAP) Annual Toy Drive, which is currently underway. As in the past, the sheriff’s office cadets are assisting with the collection of donated toys and other gifts for needy children in Putnam County.
The cadets help collect and sort donated items for delivery to underprivileged children and youths throughout Putnam County during the Christmas and Hanukkah holidays. Last year, through the generosity of donors and the efforts of the cadets and other volunteers and cooperating agencies, over 2,000 toys and gifts were distributed to about 800 children, giving them a brighter and happier holiday season.
The program is seeking donations of new, unwrapped toys or gifts for children between the ages of newborn and 18 years. Donors are invited to drop off items at the sheriff’s office headquarters located off Fair Street in Carmel, at the Town of Kent Police Department, located on Route 52 in Kent, at the CAP Headquarters located at 121 Main St. in Brewster, or at any of the number of banks and businesses participating in the Toys-for-Tots Program sponsored by the Marine Corps League. Donations should be dropped off as soon as possible, but preferably not later than Friday, Dec. 14, to allow delivery to the children in time for the holidays.
CAP Director Judy Callahan has reported that the weakened economy and unemployment situation has created an increased need among many families in the county. CAP officials and volunteers are hopeful that the generosity of Putnam County citizens will enable CAP to achieve its goal of providing three gifts for each eligible youngster aided by the program. Callahan expressed special concern for children ages 12 to 18 and suggested that donors consider giving gift cards from stores such as Best Buy, Old Navy and Kohl’s for the holiday program.
For more information on the annual toy drive, please check the Putnam CAP website at putnamcap.org or telephone Judy Callahan at 845-278-8021, Ext. 17. The website contains information on the types of gifts that are most needed in order to meet the needs of Putnam County’s children. Tax-deductible monetary donations are also welcome and may be made via the website or by check made out to “Putnam Community Action Program/WestCOP,” which will allow CAP staff to purchase needed toys for Putnam’s children.
