What’s Happening December 2025

Published On: December 5th, 2025Categories: News & Events, What's Happening

Matching Gifts Program Donates Over $590,000

The Matching Gifts Program has ended and thanks to you, we were able to match $296,075. That is a total of $592,150 going back to our communities.

Thanks to your donations, organizations such as food pantries, animal shelters, youth programs and more have been able to raise hundreds of dollars for their cause.

Once again, we could not have done this without YOUR help! See you next year!

Holiday Donation to United Way

Every November we kick off our Fixin’ Food War which ends the week before Thanksgiving. Fixin’ Food War is a friendly competition between employees to see who can collect the most Thanksgiving food items. All donations go to the United Way of Southeastern CT.

This year we collected 407 pounds of food to be donated to United Way along with $3,644 that will go towards purchasing turkeys.

Charter Oak’s Winter Drive Benefits Madonna Place in Norwich, CT.

Thank you to everyone who donated to our Winter Drive! Your generosity makes a difference!

This year, all the donations were given to Madonna Place. Your donations will help families in need stay warm this holiday season.

American Red Cross Blood Drive

Charter Oak is hosting another blood drive on February 19^th at our Headquarters Location.

Appointments can be made here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=COFCUWaterfordCt

Simple Ways to Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season

Homemade Gifts– candles, baked goods, handwritten notes, framed photos, and other crafts show thoughtfulness and are perfect for those who appreciate handmade touches.
Shop local – if you’re not a DIY-er, consider buying gifts from a local business. They are often more unique, and it helps the local economy.
Hosting Made Easy – plan your menu and shop ahead to make your holiday gatherings go smoothly. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Potluck anyone?
Set Realistic Expectations – Accept that things may not go perfectly, and that’s okay. Focus on what matters most: enjoying time with loved ones.

*information from https://www.lifeinpleasantville.com/43-holiday-tips/