By James Maroney
State Sen., D-14
James Maroney
I don’t know about you, but it is hard for me to believe that it is already December. I don’t know where this year has gone.
But with the shorter days come the holidays right around the corner. This time of year creates a sense of giving in many people. As gifting to our loved ones or children is part of the holiday tradition, we must also think of the precious gift of giving back.
One way to give back is to support our local nonprofit organizations. We are fortunate that we have many great nonprofits in our community that help to take care of those who may be in need of housing, food assistance or a helping hand.
Many of these nonprofits are integral parts of our community, hosting annual events that help to make Milford and Orange even better places to live, work and raise families. Through food drives, community meals, partnerships with local business, toy drives, coat drives and more, these organizations work to create a sense of community.
Some equate the joy of unwrapping a gift with the holiday season. If you would like to help make it possible for a child who might not otherwise be able to open a gift, consider making a donation to Milford Toys for Tots. Every year the Milford Professional Firefighters Association Local 944 runs this drive. You can drop off toys at 980 New Haven Ave. in Milford.
Unfortunately, for some people opening a toy is the last of their concerns, as they are more worried about finding a warm shelter. We are lucky to have the Beth-El Center homeless shelter in Milford. You can learn more about how to support their efforts at bethelmilford.org.
While many of our nonprofits help the neediest, there are times when we are all in need of entertainment and enrichment. Both the Milford Historical Society and Orange Historical Society enrich our communities by helping to keep our histories alive. You can learn more about the Milford Historical Society at milfordhistoricalsociety.org and you can learn more about the Orange Historical Society at OrangeHistory.org. Don’t miss the Stone Otis House Museum holiday store on Dec. 16, 23 and 30 from noon to 3 p.m.
The arts serve as a unifying force and help to bring us together. The Milford Arts Center is a great resource that offers many great programs for all ages. You can learn more about their programs at MilfordArts.org, but over the next month be sure to check out the buoy tree at Lisman Landing, the Members Art Show gallery viewing and open mic night, among other events. We also can’t forget the many great shows that are provided by the Orange Players.
These are just some of the many treasures of nonprofit organizations that we have in our community. In this season of giving, please consider supporting them so they can continue to support our community throughout the year.