The annual Toys and Trivia holiday event hosted by the Alliance, young professionals that support Catholic Charities, attracted a sold-out crowd who collected a record-breaking number of 250 brand new toys for the annual Catholic Charities Head Start Christmas Pop-Up Shops held in Baltimore City and Carroll County.
The Alliance galvanizes professionals who want to bring about positive change in our city and support Catholic Charities programs that serve all in need.
“We are a group of doers,” said Leadership Committee member, Erin Tielsch. “We do like to have fun, but we are also cognizant of our responsibility and ability to enhance the lives of others by giving back and being aware.” Amidst the competitive quizzing, snacking on pizza and stacking of presents, Sports Announcer, Pete Gilbert, of WBAL Channel 11 News served beers as the event’s celebrity bartender. Topping off the revelry was a spectacular performance by renowned lyric soprano, Mary Claire Curran.
Head Start teachers – acting as dutiful elves – are now stacking the toy trucks, dolls, puzzles in the church hall of the Transfiguration Catholic Church on 765 West Hamburg Street for this weekend’s 201th anniversary Head Start Christmas Pop-Up Shop on Saturday, December 15.
“Our families really needed this support,” said Mary Gunning, director of Catholic Charities’ Head Start of Baltimore City. Gunning added that the doors will open at 9 a.m. and with Christmas music playing and parents will merrily shop for toys by using points earned through active involvement in their child’s education. “It’s truly a magical morning that alleviates stress and brings holiday joy.”
