TROY, NY – On Sunday, the historic streets of Troy filled with the cozy sights and sounds of flannel as the ninth annual Flannel Fest kicked off. Organized by local volunteers, the event was designed to help families in need as the holiday season approaches, even though the calendar still shows autumn.
Community‑focused fundraising
Admission to the festival was simple: each guest brought an unwrapped toy to be donated to Unity House, a nonprofit that provides essential gifts and supplies to children of low‑income families. The organizers emphasized that the toy drive directly supports local families who might otherwise go without a present during the holidays.
In addition to the toy drive, the festival featured a raffle. All proceeds from the raffle were earmarked for Jake’s Help From Heaven, a charitable organization founded in 2011 that assists families facing financial hardship, especially during the holiday period. The raffle attracted a lively crowd, and the funds raised will be used to purchase food, clothing, and other necessities for those in need.
Local families and volunteers gather
Families arrived in a sea of plaid shirts, sweaters, and scarves, creating a warm, community‑spirit atmosphere. Local businesses set up booths offering food, crafts, and games for children. The event also provided an opportunity for neighbors to reconnect, share stories, and reinforce the strong family values that define Troy.
“We wanted a family‑friendly event that brings people together while supporting those who need a helping hand,” said event coordinator Maria Hernandez. “Flannel Fest has become a beloved tradition, and it’s wonderful to see so many families giving back.”
Impact on local charities
Both Unity House and Jake’s Help From Heaven rely heavily on community donations to sustain their programs. The influx of toys and raffle proceeds this year will enable Unity House to expand its holiday gift‑giving program and allow Jake’s Help From Heaven to increase its outreach to families struggling with rent, utilities, and food costs.
“Every toy and every dollar makes a real difference for families who are already stretched thin,” said Jake Miller, director of Jake’s Help From Heaven. “Events like Flannel Fest remind us that our community cares deeply about one another.”
Looking ahead
Organizers announced plans to grow the festival next year, hoping to involve more local schools and faith‑based groups. They also intend to add a “holiday‑prep” station where volunteers can assemble care packages for distribution through Unity House and Jake’s Help From Heaven.
For those who missed the event, donations of new, unwrapped toys can still be dropped off at Unity House’s main office on Oak Street, or contributions can be made online through the charities’ websites.
The Flannel Fest exemplifies Troy’s commitment to caring for families, reinforcing the town’s tradition of neighborly support and generosity.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
