Herald Neighbors

Thousands of dollars raised for toys for Freeport’s tots

Posted Friday, December 6, 2019 3:25 pm

The U.S. Marines Corps have always been a part of Toys for Tots and attended the fundraiser at the Freeport Yacht club on Nov. 21. Freeport Police Det. Patrick Franzone, second from left was joined by Andrew Londono, left, Fabrizio McMilland and Irvin Argueta right.

Christina Daly/Herald

“The Cocktails” performed during the fundrasier.

Christina Daly/Herald

Det. Patrick Franzone,left and Mary Muldowney thanked everyone for their generosity and continual support of Toys for Freeport Tots.

Christina Daly/Herald

taste of Freeport by filling plates with food from Braccos during the fundraiser.

Christina Daly/Herald

“The Cocktails,” who donated their time played “I Know It’s Only Rock & Roll But I Like It” while Darlene Judge, left, and Carla Sasso danced.

Christina Daly/Herald

A $4,000 check was donated by Jeannie Jordan of The Freeport Community Development Agency.

Christina Daly/Herald

By Nadya Nataly

Freeporters spent an evening tasting some of the best local cuisine during the Taste of Freeport fundraiser for the Toys for Freeport Tots on Nov. 21 that featured local eateries like Bracco’s Clam Bar and more.

Members of the Freeport Chamber of Commerce, Freeport Community Development Agency, along with US Marine Corps and local elected officials participated in the event. In an evening, toys for the annual Christmas toy drive along with funds were collected. The Freeport Community Development Agency, represented by Jeannie Jordan presented Freeport Police Department Detective Patrick Franzone with a check of $4,000 to buy toys.

Franzone has been hosting the toy drive for the last 26 years. The annual event allows local families in needs to pick up toys at the Freeport Police Benevolent Association to gift their children on Christmas morning.

Each year the PBA spends an entire day in December giving away the toys, they’ve been collecting throughout the years. Baby dolls, superhero figures, basketballs, board games and even a few bicycles are given out in the shooting range’s lounge. Volunteer includes retired police officers, teachers, active military and veterans.

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