Basket fund helps those in need during holiday season

MONMOUTH — The Cottrell-Taylor Christmas Basket Fund was established about 51 years ago in memory of Henry L. Cottrell, a Monmouth principal, and later Robert Taylor, a teacher.

Its mission is to provide Christmas dinners and gifts for families in Monmouth who are in need during the holiday season. The committee is hard at work and is accepting donations for these families. We realize times continue to be difficult for all, so we think it is important to remember the children. We were able to help 67 families (112 children) and three elderly couples through your generous contributions last year. Your consideration is appreciated. In addition to money, we are accepting new clothing, mittens, hats, gloves, games, puzzles, school supplies and books for kids of all ages, which can be left at one of the Monmouth schools. If you choose to donate money, a check can be written to the Cottrell-Taylor Christmas Basket Fund. If possible, the committee would like contributions on or before Dec. 2 but will gratefully accept them at a later date. Monetary donations can be mailed to Laurie Gifford, P.O. Box 218, Monmouth, ME 04259. — Penny Robertson, Monmouth