SACO — The holiday season is a magical time when good deeds are evident throughout the community.

One such local event is a perfect example of that. Hampton Cares is an employee-based committee motivated by compassion and empathy and focused on outreach and involvement in order to give back and better our community through sponsorship and participation in local charitable events.

Last fall, a group of Hampton Inn employees in Saco decided that they wanted to be greater participants in the community at large. They were alerted to a local family who needed some assistance to help give their children a happier holiday and after only four weeks of planning, employees held their first craft fair.

Using the meeting room space generously donated by the Hampton Inn management and ownership, they were able to raise almost $700 as well as the numerous donations of gifts turned in to the Giving Tree that was set up in the lobby.

Inspired by the success of this fall’s efforts, Melissa Lannon, Committee Chair, gathered together a small group of employees who agreed they wanted to help the community in a bigger and more organized way.

“We are happy to announce that our next fair will be held on Dec. 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.,” Lannon said. “Our craft fair will feature about 20 different local artisans and business owners. There will be a 50/50 raffle, Silent Auction, Music, and Concessions.”

Advertisement

She said that the Salvation Army in Old Orchard Beach will pair Hampton employees with 10 local adults and children who are in need this holiday season.

“All proceeds from table rentals, concessions, and ticket sales will go directly toward fulfilling these individuals Christmas wishes,” Lannon said. “After much success, we will also have the ‘Giving Tree’ set up in the lobby again this year from Nov. 25 until Dec. 16. We want to encourage the community to come out and support our cause so that we may continue to reach out to those in need for the coming years.”

The Hampton Inn  is at 48 Industrial Park Road in Saco.

For more information, call 282-7222.

Comments are not available on this story.