Snowsuits. Boots. Warm pajamas. These are just a few of the items families in need will have the opportunity to purchase over the next two months through this year’s Warm the Children program. Over 80 community volunteer shoppers are eager and ready to accompany families in need to Walmart in Hamburg, where they’ll be able to select new, warm, winter clothing for their youngsters.
As we continue to navigate life in a pandemic, schools, churches and human service agencies rely on organizations like Warm the Children to provide essentials to families in need. Qualifying families who reside in Hamburg, Angola, Blasdell, Derby, Boston, Eden, North Collins, Lake View, Brant and portions of Lackawanna must be referred to Warm the Children by school and church staff.
“As Rotary Club of Hamburg enters its 14th year of sponsoring Warm the Children through the Club’s Foundation, we are very grateful for community support, which includes a major donation of $15,000 from the East Hill Foundation, $3,500 from the Louise K. Mokadam Family Foundation and a $1,000 grant from Home Depot in Hamburg,” explains Elizabeth Angelbeck, who coordinates the program each fall. Last year, as a result of kindness and generosity of donors in the community, Warm the Children brought joyful smiles to approximately 380 youngsters!
100% of all donations to Warm the Children go toward the purchase of new clothing and is fully tax-deductible. Administrative costs are absorbed by Rotary, while Club members coordinate the program with assistance from Evans Bank and community volunteers.
“This year, we hope to assist between 400-450 children, depending upon contributions received. We know the need is great, especially due to the pandemic,” says Elizabeth Angelbeck. Those wishing to contribute may do so by making checks payable to Warm the Children Fund and either mailing or bringing donations to Evans Bank, 5999 S. Park Avenue, Hamburg, NY 14075. Contributions may made online at www.hamburgrotaryclub.org/SitePage/warm-the-children.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg participated in the 2nd Annual Dr. Ron Mergl Pedal/Participate for Polio fundraiser. District 7090 has a goal to reach $60,000 USD, which will be tripled by the Gates Foundation. 
The Rotary Club of Hamburg and Village of Hamburg Parks & Recreation held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the morning of on April 7 at the small public park at Main and Buffalo streets. The ceremony marked the official opening of the three bicycle repair
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