2009 Operation Christmas Telethon & Auction Once Again A Success
The 34th annual Citizens for Citizens, Inc. (CFC) Operation Christmas fund raising drive held its traditional telethon and auction at the New Harbor Mall on December 5th and 6th for the holiday benefit of thousands of families in the Greater Fall River area.
In 1975, the Operation Christmas program began with a distribution of used toys to Fall River tots. The program has grown tremendously and now provides new toys at Christmastime to over 5,000 Greater Fall River area children. Operation Christmas is funded entirely by donations from area residents and businesses, with all funds raised used to purchase new toys for local children.
The story of CFC’s Operation Christmas is one of community spirit, of sharing and compassion. This year, as in years past, thousands of youngsters who may have otherwise gone without gifts will receive toys for Christmas. In December, Citizens for Citizens, Inc. staff people and volunteers will dedicate countless hours to the work of preparing gifts from Santa Claus, culminating in the distribution of toys and games to families that otherwise would be facing a bleak holiday.
Volunteers helping to auction off items to raise funds
Under the able leadership and convincing diplomacy of Operation Christmas Coordinator, Barbara Travis, the Fall River effort has achieved dramatic success over the years. According to Ms. Travis, “It is a wonderful feeling to see how our community rallies around Operation Christmas. The telethon, auction, and organizing of the toy distribution involve many dedicated people who put a great deal of time and energy into the project.
Barbara Travis taking a break from her fund raising duties
We rely on community support and it is there for all to see when the cameras are turned on and we go live into the homes of thousands of city residents.” Special praise was given to the Durfee High School students who are enrolled in the FRED TV production and supply all the technical direction and live feed production to Fall River cable customers.
FRED TV students broadcasting the telethon to the local audience
The Operation Christmas Telethon has become a holiday tradition for many Fall Riverites. Local and regional dignitaries get involved in the two-day event, donating their time to promote the fund raising campaign. This year the telethon was visited by United States Senate candidate, Representative Michael Capuano from Somerville. Mr. Capuano sat down with CFC’s Executive Director, Mark A. Sullivan, Jr. and Barbara Travis to speak about the toy drive and other programs that CFC operates.
Mark A. Sullivan, Jr., Michael Capuano , Barbara Travis and Dave Sullivan
Mr. Sullivan said “Mr. Capuano has supported CFC’s antipoverty programs in the House of Representatives and will continue to do so if elected to the Senate.” Barbara Travis informed Representative Capuano that she had spent part of her youth in Somerville. Many talented local groups and individuals also provided free entertainment during the live telecast.
One of the many talented youths performing at the telethon
All of the donations to Operation Christmas are used to purchase new toys and games for children up to age 12 years old. Distribution of the Operation Christmas gifts will take place on December 19th at the Citizens for Citizens, Inc. Griffin Street location, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
