The Edgartown Patrolman’s Association teamed up with the Red Stocking Fund to fill a VTA bus with toys, board games, bikes, and more at the second annual Stuff-a-Bus on Saturday.
Officer Zachary Townes, one of the organizers, said the event has scaled up significantly since its first run last year: “We had a slightly smaller bus last year; it was more of a van than a bus.” Townes thanked the VTA for letting police use the bus to store and transport all the gifts. “We are very grateful to them for being a part in this effort, we couldn’t have done it without them,”he said.
Townes said the copious collection of gifts is reflective of how a small community like Edgartown comes together during the holidays. “Everyone really cares about each other here,” Townes said. “It is a very unique place where everyone wants to give back.”
Donations of all types were accepted (except electronics), as long as they were new and in their packaging. Cash donations were also accepted, and toward the end of the day over $100 was raised.
Paul Abbanat, an Edgartown resident, approached Officer Will Bishop and shook his hand. “Thank you very much for all you guys do, you make this a great place to live,” Abbanat told Bishop. Abbanat took out his wallet and handed Bishop all the money inside. “Here you go, it’s not much, but it’s all I have on me,” he said.
Abbanat said he admires the Edgartown Police for getting involved in the community and helping those in need. “It’s such a great thing these guys are doing. They’re the best of the best,” Abbanat said.
Jessica McGroarty walked up to the bus with her son Connor, who was smiling from ear to ear. She handed Connor a brown paper bag filled with action figures and toy dolls, then ushered him forward. “Here you go, give the bag to the man,” she said. Connor handed the bag tentatively to Bishop, who thanked the young boy and gave him a high-five.
Bishop said the event promotes generosity within the community, especially in children and families. “We have seen a number of parents walk up with their kids and hand them a bag of toys to donate,” Bishop said. “I think it instills good values in people.”
Even with the bus filled with goodies, Townes said the Red Stocking Fund is always looking for more donations: “There are always going to be kids without gifts, and even though this year was an incredible turnout, we are always thinking about how we can do more to help.”