My heart is always touched by the kindness and generosity that our little town receives from residents, businesses and non-profits alike during the holiday season. I have to admit that I was a little nervous going into the season knowing what state the economy is in. Well, I was surprised again by the outpouring support from everyone to make this as happy a season as it has always been. 

This year we handed out 39 Thanksgiving baskets to residents. I would like to thank everyone who made this possible. Ginny and Howard Walker held their annual Halloween Party for family and friends. Each guest was asked to bring a non-perishable item to be donated to the town for these baskets.

Again this year the Scouts held a food drive and donated all the items to our local food pantry. The money that they raised was donated to the town to help toward the cost of putting together the baskets. We also had a number of residents, businesses and non-profits donate food and money to go toward this cause.

Secret Santa helped 19 families this year totaling 33 children. The town of Arundel is very lucky to have so many generous people wanting to help. Secret Santa is a non-profit group that helps provide gifts to children in need from Arundel, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport. 

I would like to send out a most sincere “Thank You” to Bentley’s Saloon, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Weir’s Motor Sales, Arundel Ford, Red Apple Campground, St. Phillips Parish, the teachers and staff at Mildred L. Day School and my very special knitting ladies and everyone who gave so much this year to make this a special holiday season for so many.

I am honored to work in a town that is filled with so many caring and giving people. I would also like to thank everyone associated with Secret Santa and Elder Elves for all that they do.

These individuals donate so much of their time in order to put a smile on a child’s face and the gift of love into the hearts of the elderly. I wish all of you the very best of the coming new year and always.

Wendy Lank

Arundel Social Services