Bringing holiday cheer to those in need, Gloucester Daily Times editorial, December 14, 2005 page B5

Project Uplift is just one of multiple efforts on Cape Ann during the holiday season. But the toy drive now in its 15^th year and run by three volunteers through Action Inc., is special at more than one level.  It provides dolls, stuffed animals, board games and other childhood toys to hundreds of local families who could not otherwise afford them, bringing a little Christmas magic to their children. It is also a labor of love for Loretta Peres, Eileen Ryan, and Kathy Stewart, who each spend 120-200 hours in the weeks before Christmas sorting, organizing and packaging the toys for low-income families. All three say they received assistance from Action Inc. at one point in their lives and say this is a way for them to give back---to help those now in need, just as they were.  Their greatest joy, they say, is the thanks from parents and the look on the faces of the children who are the recipients of the gifts. And, the drive survives and thrives on the donations of generous local residents.  Last year’s drive produced enough toys to fill every one of the 171 orders for toys that went to 365 children. That is more than just the spirit of the season.  It is the spirit of a true community. 

For volunteers, project has special meaning.  Gloucester Daily Times December 13, 2005