WESTPORT — The annual “Family to Family Seasonal Holiday Giving Program,” benefiting town residents experiencing financial hardship, is being organized again by the town’s Department of Human Services.

The program is designed to bring “holiday cheer to local friends and neighbors facing financial hardship,” according to a statement from Elaine Daignault, the town’s human services director.

“The annual program is funded entirely by community donations and assists over 100 income-qualified Westport households with school-aged children,” she said.

The COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years has increased local needs, DHS officials said, with working parents “facing unemployment, under-employment, food insecurity and chronic stress associated with providing for their families.”

Annette D’Augelli, the department’s family program coordinator, is supervising the holiday campaign.

“Donating funds and gift cards allow residents and companies to pay it forward, while helping an anonymous family to provide food and gifts for their children during the holiday season,”  D’Augelli said in announcing this year’s program.

All of the donations are used to directly benefit those Westport families who qualify for financial assistance throughout the year, according to DHS officials.

The program has shifted away from collecting material gifts such as toys and clothing, to focus on gift cards, checks and cash. The purpose is two-fold: to help ensure health and safety during the pandemic, as well as to allow parents to tailor donations to their families’ particular needs.

To make donations:

• Online, click here.
• By mail, Westport Department of Human Services, c/o Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport, CT 06880.
• In person, make an appointment with the Department of Human Services office, Room 200, Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Ave. Phone: 203-341-1050.
• Westport residents in need of assistance caused by financial difficulties can contact the Department of Human Services at 203-341-1050 or humansrv@westportct.gov for confidential assistance.
• For more information about the holiday program, contact Annette D’Augelli at adaugelli@westportct.gov or 203-341-1183.