By Patrick Hare
Thirty-five years ago three friends decided to spend their holidays by giving, instead of receiving. From the hearts of Paul Lacava, Richie Halverson and Matt Stapanski came the Holiday Wish Toy Drive, and it has become an annual tradition ever since. With the help of the Worcester Fire and Police departments, MA State Troopers, Worcester Fitness, and countless other organizations and individuals, the toy drive has helped families from all around Worcester share in the holiday spirit.
Last year, the Holiday Wish Toy Drive brought in nearly 7,000 toy donations. It’s estimated that since the drive’s inception nearly $1,000,000 has been donated in toys and gifts! That means, over time, numerous families have been able to enjoy their holiday thanks to the kind hearts of all involved.
While some friends have passed, their legacy will continue through the Planting the Seed Foundation. As an organization that started out small with ambitions to make big things happen, Planting the Seed hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The organization continues to fulfill the mission on which it was founded, but with more events aimed at connecting with families throughout the community.
Today, Planting the seed hosts several events every year including the Holiday Wish Toy Drive, the Worcester Fitness 5K / Stuff the Bus event, as well as several meat raffles held throughout the year. Altogether, these events allow Planting the Seed to give assistance to hundreds of families via holiday gifts, summer camp scholarships, back-to-school supplies and individual requests.
We appreciate all the generosity that our community has shown, and there are plenty of ways you can help by donating or volunteering with Planting the Seed. With the continued support from our entire organization and you, it is our goal to continue to provide service to help our community.
Planting the Seed now has a new website and is on Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest check out the sites and give us a like or a follow!