Dan's Hamptons

Not only is this the season to spread holiday cheer to your loves ones, but it is also the time of year where we need to think about those less fortunate who could benefit greatly from just a small amount of our time and energy. Here are a few places, both local and across Long Island where you can donate to during the 2006 Holiday Season.

In Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Greenport, Southampton, Westhampton Beach, and Baiting Hollow, Dan’s Papers is hosting its Annual Toy Drive for Children in Need through December 15. Dan’s Papers is proud to assist the fine work of the following organizations: The Retreat, The Bridgehampton Child Care, and Recreation Center and The East Hampton Day Care Center. Dan’s Papers is located at 2221 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton. For more information about drop-off locations and suggestions for new and unwrapped gifts, call 631-537-0500.

There is a Toy For Kids Drive sponsored by Hamptons.com. They will be collecting toys at their 38 Main Street, Southampton location to benefit Human Resources of the Hamptons. For over thirty years, Human Resources of the Hamptons has been bringing compassion to the community. Led by Executive Director Maryann Tupper, they help over 950 local families with their weekly Food Pantry service, and assist over 6000 people each year through a variety of programs. Donations of new unwrapped toys can be dropped off at 38 Main Street, Southampton, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through December 22nd.

Also in Southampton is The Southampton Day Care Center’s Wish List. The Southampton Day Care Center has been serving families for over twenty years. You can donate to their wish list which includes: arts and crafts supplies, paper towels, toilet paper, baby wipes, hand soap (pumps), cleaning supplies, paper plates, plastic utensils, napkins, outside toys, children’s clothing (3T to 5T), storage bins, children’s music tapes/CDs and videos. Located at 100 David Whites Lane, Southampton. For more information call 631-287-8734. All donations are tax deductible.

In Sag Harbor, Batiste Hair Salon kicks off the holiday season with a Donate a Toy For the Holidays. All donated toys will be distributed to community children in need through local charities, Church programs, and the hospital. Bring a toy to 75 Main Street, for more information call 631-725-9494.

Throughout December, there will be a Toys For Tots Drive at the Municipal Building, 55 Main Street in Sag Harbor.

Food Pantry Donations will also be accepted in Sag Harbor at the Apple Band, Village Hall, and Old Whalers Church in Sag Harbor throughout December.

At the Riverhead Polish Hall in Riverhead, there will be a Bachelor & Bachelorette Auction “Toys for Tots” Fundraiser on Saturday, December 9, at 8 p.m. Long Island’s most eligible Bachelors & Bachelorette’s will be auctioned off to the highest bidder for a dinner date for two at some of the best, well-known restaurants in the area. Proceeds will be donated to the United States Marine Corp’s “Toys for Tots” organization. Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 at the door. Each purchase includes 2 complimentary drinks and a buffet dinner. There will be raffles and prizes. Located at 214 Marcy Avenue, Riverhead. Call Angela 631-506-4497 for tickets.

Outside of the Hamptons, Big Brothers Big Sisters has a special fund called Holiday for Kids Sake (HFKS). This program is an important outreach to financially challenged families during the holiday season. Each family in the program receives gifts for all the children, plus food for a special dinner and other necessity items. On December 23rd with the spirit of giving in the air, members of the community will come together with the common goal of delivering food and gifts to their fellow Long Islanders, no matter where they might live. From Nassau to the East End. Gifts are especially needed for teen kids. If you would like to donate gifts, make a financial contribution or have a company gift drive, please contact Tracey at 516-731-7880.

Long Island Cares: The Harry Chapin Food Bank. Their mission to end hunger on Long Island. Gift recipients will receive a personalized card that a gift has been made in their name to the food bank. A gift of $30 will feed a family for two days; $105 for one week. To make a holiday tribute gift, or to find out more about Long Island Cares, Inc., The Harry Chapin Food Bank, call 631-582-FOOD or visit www.licares.org.

No matter how much or how little you decide to donate this year, giving to children, families and those in need is a simple way to brighten the lives of others. If you or an organization you know is accepting donations for the 2006 Holiday Season, please fax information to 631-537-3330.