Southbury Seeks Donations For 100 Holiday Cheer Baskets For Seniors

Southbury's annual Holiday Cheer Drive is seeking donations to prepare 100 gift baskets for local seniors, according to the Town of Southbury. Residents and organizations can deliver contributions to the Southbury Senior Center by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2.

The Southbury Senior Services Department identifies older residents who may be isolated or need extra holiday cheer. The department delivered 100 baskets to 100 seniors in need last year and aims to distribute another 100 in 2026.

Donors can contribute completed themed baskets, individual items for staff to assemble or money for additional items and gift cards. The center accepts cash or checks payable to Town of Southbury, with Holiday Cheer in the memo line.

Suggested themes include cozy winter nights, pasta dinners, brunch, pet care, self-care, art, men's gifts and laundry. Requested items range from mugs, cocoa, pajamas and blankets to pasta, sauces, cooking supplies, pancake mix and snacks. Other suggestions include pet food and toys, heating pads, lotions, art supplies, craft kits, shaving kits, laundry detergent and towels.

The town also requests $10 to $15 gift cards to businesses such as Dunkin Donuts and McDonalds, plus local restaurant, movie theater and gas gift cards. Calendars, stamps, greeting cards and stationery are also requested. Donors may contribute Senior Center bus cards valued at $15 or $20 for in-town trips, or $15 Dial a Ride Medical cards.

All donations should be delivered to the Southbury Senior Center by the deadline. To discuss ways to contribute, call the Southbury Senior Services office at 203-262-0651.