Dot non-profit announces holiday toy drive for kids in need

At a time of heightened economic anxiety for local families, many of whom are struggling to pay rent or put food on the table, Dorchester-based non-profit United Senergy is organizing a holiday toy drive this year from November 16 through December 18 with the goal of spreading joy to children in low-income households in the neighborhood.

“Given the massive unemployment and other difficulties impacting residents of low-income neighborhoods, the reports we get are that many children may be without a gift this holiday season,” said Danquell Bradford, Founder/CEO, United Senergy. “We are not going to let that happen!”

In reaching out to local and national companies and individual donors, Bradford is looking to ensure that children in need receive gifts for Kwanzaa, Christmas, Hanukkah, or whatever holiday they celebrate.

“This is the season to be joyful,” he continued. “And if we all work together we can bring joy and hope to families who are struggling, who feel abandoned.”

Along with new unwrapped toys, games, clothing and gift certificates, Bradford and colleagues at United Senergy plan to provide laptops and tablets for teens and school-age children.

Toy drive beneficiaries include children in the Jeremiah Program, an initiative based in Roxbury with a mission to end the cycle of poverty for single mothers and their children two generations at a time through a holistic approach that emphasizes college credentialing for moms, high academic achievement for children, and any needed supports to stabilize the whole family during their journey.

“Due to the pandemic and lost jobs, our families are struggling more acutely than ever this year,” said Alison Carter Marlow, executive director of Jeremiah Program Boston. “Holiday gifts for their children will provide hope and comfort to moms who are trying to do it all in a very difficult time.”

Those interested in participating in United Senergy’s toy drive can drop off toys and gifts at Alliance Glass, 902 Dorchester Ave., from Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. You can also make a donation online at www.unitedsenergy.org or mail a check to United Senergy Inc., c/o Danquell Bradford, 906 Dorchester Ave. Dorchester, MA 02125.


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