For the seventh consecutive year, Casey’s Grill & Bar in Wakefield is sponsoring a holiday gift drive for Washington County’s teens in need. People who drop off an unwrapped gift on Sunday, December 5 between 4-6 pm will be treated to Santa, caroling, eggnog, cider and a complimentary buffet. NOTE TIME CHANGE.

“The gift drive has become an important tradition for us at Casey’s,” says General Manager Noelle Brousseau. “Every year has been more fun. It’s a wonderful way to serve a group of kids who are often forgotten at a time when they should feel closest to their communities.”

Brousseau reports that local businesses, charitable organizations, and community members, including many URI students and faculty members, collected more than $4,100 worth of gifts, gift certificates, and cash donations last December.

The Washington County Coalition for Children (WCCC) distributes the unwrapped gifts to local human services agencies who serve families with teens. “Casey’s has been a fantastic and generous partner,” notes WCCC Coordinator Susan Orban. “We depend on area sponsors and volunteers to help us take care of those left behind at the holidays. Casey’s always steps up.”

Orban suggests that ideas for teen gifts include: T-shirts, pajamas, slippers, hooded sweatshirts, caps, socks, Red Sox jersey/cap, watches, skateboards, sports equipment, MP3 music players, board games, or arts and craft supplies. “You can also think ‘stocking stuffers,” she adds, “such as nail polish, lip gloss, toiletries, body lotion, perfume/cologne, hair clips, jewelry, stationery, or CDs.” She also proposes gift certificates from area merchants and restaurants for meals, bike supplies, music, DVDs, books, clothing, sporting goods, manicures, hair salon, movie passes, sports events, bowling, skating, ice cream, pizza, or fast-food. “We also accept cash donations,” Orban points out. Unwrapped gifts should be brought to Casey’s on Sunday, December 5 from 4-6 pm.

“Everyone on our staff contributes in some way to make the gift drive successful each year,” says Brousseau. “The joy and holiday spirit can truly be felt throughout the restaurant. I hope generous gift givers will stay and celebrate the season with us.”