For the fourth consecutive year, Chapel Haven Schleifer Center has teamed up with WTNH News Channel 8 to sponsor the GR 8 Holiday toy drive.
Working with WTNH, CHSC contributed to a successful toy drive, culminating in collection of:
- 2,648 Toys
- 30 Bicycles
- $530 in Cash Donations
This year, the toy drive took place Dec. 6 at North Haven High School. Members of the News 8 team were on hand as the community dropped off new, unwrapped toys and cash. The toys are distributed through the U.S. Marines and the Toys for Tots Foundation to area children in need.
See the WTNH news coverage here
The toy drive each year is truly a team effort. This year, big thanks are going out to the “elves” who man our collection boxes in each building -Cherice Grandy, Bradley Bopp, Jen Schiavo and Ruari Clancy.
Bins in each building on campus were brimming with toys for children of all ages. We are so grateful to everyone who took the time to donate and to volunteer at the Dec. 6 toy drive!
Appearing live on WTNH’s CTBuzz
In addition to the toy drive, Chapel Haven Schleifer Center was featured on WTNH’s CT Buzz show.
During the segment, Bill Angier, REACH special education teacher, shared how Chapel Haven Schleifer Center partners with employers across Connecticut-including Yale New Haven Hospital, the JCC of Greater New Haven, and CVS-to help students build real-world skills that prepare them for meaningful employment. Second-year student Rudy gave viewers a look into his hands-on experience volunteering at the JCC’s Café J, where he works the register, prepares drinks, and interacts with customers as part of developing confidence and independence.
The discussion also spotlighted the two-year REACH program, where students live in on-campus apartments and learn essential life skills such as cooking, cleaning, and building social connections. The segment wrapped with an invitation to support the Great 8 Holiday Give, proudly sponsored by Chapel Haven Schleifer Center, happening Dec. 6 at North Haven High School.
View the segment here
Read more about the Gr8 Holiday Give here
