These past several weeks, the Community Service Board has been preparing to brighten the holidays for many. This time each year, Milton students and adults raise money and purchase gifts for local children and families in need, through nonprofit organizations and the Department of Children and Families. This year, students, faculty and staff purchased 30 winter coats for children of the Brookview House. Students gave children their gifts at the Brookview House holiday party. At this festive event, children dove into arts and crafts and took in performances by Milton students.
The Community Service Board also partners with the Department of Children and Families to purchase “wish list” gifts for 30 children. Individuals or advisor groups sponsor a child, providing a little extra joy. Finally, students raised over $1,400 to create food baskets for families, providing potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce—all the fixings—along with gift cards for purchasing a turkey or ham. Milton’s elves work tirelessly, in the lead up to winter break, to raise enough money for gifts and supplies in time for the holidays.
But students know that they don’t work alone! Many people—on campus and off—support the group’s work all year, and the board shares their gratitude during this season. Volunteer drivers and others who help community service—with event set-up, dining and audio-visual needs, communication support—take home poinsettia plants, delivered with hand-written words of thanks. Milton’s Community Service elves spread joy to all corners each December.