By Jack Robinson

WESTPORT–Thousands of Westporters heading to the polls to cast their votes today might walk right past one of the most devoted, yet underappreciated, workers on election day: the many volunteers who run the bake sales. 

At the polling locations located in schools–Greens Farms, Saugatuck, Long Lots and Coleytown Middle–parents, often with the help of their children, stand watch over the many baked treats donated. 

“It’s all supporting our school PTA,” Coleytown Middle School volunteer Meredith Anand said. “We’re just trying to make as much as possible [for them].” 

Many of the baked goods sold are made by parents of that particular school; many chip in to have as big of a line-up as possible for election day. The funds raised are often put to use in funding some of the pricier school events. 

“25 to 30 parents [baked for us today],” Greens Farms volunteer Amy Graham said. “We are fundraising for the 5th grade, specifically for their moving up ceremony.” The fundraisers have the potential to make a lot of money for the PTAs that organize them, so many parents pitch in. In addition to the many baked goods contributed, a large pool volunteers watch over their sales for as long as the polls are open. 

“We want to beat the number that we hit last year,” Long Lots volunteer Megan Prince. “I do believe that this elementary school has generated the biggest bake sale […] it’s consistently a big fundraiser for us.”