Overwhelming community support aids OPA holiday donation drives

(Dec. 17, 2020) Thanks to a tremendous amount of community support, Ocean Pines this year was able to make significant donations to two local families and four area nonprofits ahead of the Christmas holiday. 

This week, the Association sent an SUV full of toys to Worcester County GOLD, two carloads of food and clothing to Diakonia, and a load of pet supplies to the Worcester County Humane Society.  

Additionally, Ocean Pines supported two local families with children, in cooperation with Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services.  

Next week, Ocean Pines staff will deliver holiday dinner baskets to 10 local families through Worcester County GOLD, as part of an annual donation drive by Association employees. 

The Aquatics Department and Recreation and Parks Department also gave through their Angel Tree program and the Be a Santa to a Senior program, respectively. 

Senior Executive Assistant Michelle Bennett, who helped coordinate the massive effort along with help from every department in Ocean Pines, said she was overwhelmed by the generosity of people in the community. 

Bennett said she would like to thank the Shapeups Fitness Club, Ocean Pines Line Dancers, Cathy Gallagher, OPA staff, and everyone who brought a donation.  

“The Ocean Pines community really stepped up and supported our donation drives, but this is no surprise. Ocean Pines is full of caring, compassionate and supportive residents,” she said. “Merry Christmas to a wonderful community, and here’s to hoping 2021 is a better year for all!”