Rep. Hwang, Lt. Governor Fedele on Helping Operation Hope in Fairfield

State Representative Tony Hwang (R-134) partnering with the Fairfield Community Theatre, kicked off the holiday season by hosting a “fun” raising event for Operation Hope. A capacity crowd of over 300 local residents, predominately families with young children, attended the showing of the holiday movie “Elf,” starring Will Ferrell.

Admission to the event was a donation of a non-perishable canned food or $5 to benefit Operation Hope. Many overflowing bins of donated food were collected and delivered to the organization’s Food Pantry. Cash donations of over $500 were collected which will go toward the purchase of holiday gifts for families staying at the Operation Hope shelter. Carla Miklos, Executive Director of Operation Hope enthusiastically stated “We are so grateful for State Rep. Hwang’s creative idea and this is a wonderful opportunity to get into the holiday spirit.”

Among the event supporters were community leaders which included Board of Education members Pam Iacono and Tim Kery, Probate Judge Dan Caruso, TPZ member Deb Owens and State Representatives Tom Drew (Fairfield-132nd) and TR Rowe (Trumbull-123rd). Our food partners Nauti Dolphin Pizza and Super Duper Weenie provided delicious luncheon fare for the movie-going crowds. Capitol Interactive Photos provided family portrait photography and gave framed photos to families at no cost.

The event created a unique combination of family fun and public service within the community and accomplished the mission of entertaining, enriching and educating young people in our community to give back and participate in public service. “The overwhelming support and charity that was demonstrated by local families showed and reinforced to all the volunteers that the holiday spirit of giving and helping a neighbor in need is alive and well.” said Rep. Hwang.

Over 35 local youth volunteers from surrounding high schools contributed their time, energy and enthusiasm to make the event an overwhelming success. The young leaders collected canned goods, waved poster boards, took photographs and provided information to ensure movie goers and their families enjoyed the day. “It is reassuring to watch young people, who will become our future leaders demonstrate selfless and energetic commitment to public service,” said Hwang. “We, as current community leaders need to encourage and nurture young people to believe that community service is an integral part of their educational and career/business development”.

If you need more information or wish to donate or contribute to Operation Hope, please go to www.operationhopect.org.