The First Congregational Church of Greenwich has awarded $60,014 to seven local nonprofit organizations, marking the largest distribution in the 59-year history of its annual Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale.
Church leaders presented the gifts on Sunday, Feb. 22, during a celebration in Old Greenwich. The funds, raised through the longstanding holiday sale, will support organizations serving children and families in Greenwich and Stamford.
Each of six organizations received $7,500: Greenwich Alliance for Education, Mothers for Others, Pacific House Young Adults Program, The Undies Project, Greenwich United Way and the YWCA Harmony Project. In addition, proceeds will fully fund a monthly hot meal at New Covenant Center for one year and provide support for Call-A-Ride.
Since the sale began in 1966, total gifts from its proceeds have reached an estimated $943,354.
The annual tree and wreath sale has grown into a community-wide effort staffed by volunteers of all ages, including church members, representatives from recipient charities and students from Greenwich public and independent schools. According to Pam Speer, co-chair of the sale, more than 100 local volunteers contributed 282 hours to the most recent effort.
“First Church is grateful and proud of the support and generosity of our shoppers and volunteers. We are honored to in turn support these wonderful agencies who are working hard in our community to help children and families most in need,” said Kate Collins, co-chair of the event.
The First Congregational Church of Greenwich, established in 1665, describes itself as open and affirming to all for participation, membership, leadership and employment. Its mission, according to the church, is “to proclaim the gospel to all people and to work for the promotion of justice, the reign of peace, and the search for human understanding in all our relationships.”
The church’s historic building features a bell tower with 12 copper and block tin bells, cornerstones dating to 1895 and stained-glass windows dating to 1896.
Those pictured at the awards celebration included Anders Ekernas of Call-A-Ride; Ginny Chaney of The Undies Project; Julie Faryniarz, executive director of Greenwich Alliance for Education; Cathy de Graff, copresident of Mothers for Others; David Rabin, CEO of Greenwich United Way; and event co-chairs Lauren Ghaffari, Pam Speer and Kate Collins.
