Submitted by Alli Behnke, HKYFS
(December 29, 2025) — “We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men.” —- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
These words perfectly express the overwhelming response to this year’s annual Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services Holiday Giving Program.
“Time and time again, our HK family shows up to demonstrate love, care and generosity to neighbors. The relief provided to families trying to make ends meet as they realize that the magic of the holidays will be there for their children was palpable at each and every pick-up. This program is not just about presents. It is about individual security, safety, and mental wellness,” said Alli Behnke, HKYFS Director of Programming.
This year HKYFS is proud to share that our special community reached out in every way to provide support to neighbors in need. The holiday season is a time for caring and sharing, but it can also be a difficult time for families experiencing hardships.
This year, gifts, winter coats, hand-made blankets, and gift cards were donated to 50 families and 114 youth needing a helping hand. Community members from Haddam, Higganum, Haddam Neck and Killingworth joined together to brighten and lighten the days leading up to the holidays.
Thank you to our Connecticut State Troopers, New Image Auto, and Parmelee Farm for hosting two Stuff-a-Cruiser events for community members to donate a variety of toys and gifts for children of all ages. Thank you to more than 500 individual donors, churches, local businesses, organizations and groups for the overwhelming support for our youth and their families.
Photo above provided by HKYFS: Members of Girl Scout Troop 62877, which donated gift wrap packages and created holiday cards for all families.
