And Stratford is a neighbor to this small city with a big heart, so a toy drive will be held here

Stratford’s Sterling House Community Center is seeking donations of new unwrapped toys for children up to age 15 in the annual holiday Toy Drive and Adopt a Family program, said Special Events Director Susan Koperwhats.
Kicking off the campaign, the Cruisin’ East Car Club of Stratford will conduct toy donation drives on Oct. 26, starting at the Harborside Restaurant, Ferry Boulevard, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and then relocating to Goodie’s (formerly the Greek’s Diner), Cherry Street, Milford, until dusk. Rain date is Nov. 2.
Also, toys can be left at Sterling House, 2283 Main St., Monday through Saturday through Dec. 13.
Each year during the holiday season, more than 1,000 local children receive toys that have been donated by individuals, organizations and businesses, Koperwhats said.
The Cruisin’ East Car Club originated in Bridgeport 25 years ago and, for more than two decades, has collected toys for the center’s program. Phil Convertito is club president and David Burs is toy drive organizer.
For information on how to support the program, contact Koperwhats at 203-378-2606, ext. 107, or email at skoperwhats@sterlinghousecc.org.