Operation Merry & Bright Brought Smiles and Cheer

More than just a toy drive, for the second year in a row Operation Merry & Bright delivered smiles and backpacks stuffed to the top of necessities, treats and healthy food for Club members to share with their families over the winter break.

Many Martin County children and their families depend on Boys & Girls Clubs for healthy, reliable meals and snacks. That is why BGCMC worked hard to ensure that every child — especially those who needed it most, were fed when the Clubs were closed during the winter holiday break. The food supply was carefully assembled to last throughout the winter break — not just enough food for the child, but enough for their family too. Items included fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy pantry items, prepared meals, and snacks.

Plus, each child also received a new backpack with a wrapped toy, as well as a grade-appropriate book, and essential care items such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, comb and a mask.

But this wouldn't have been possible without support from the community.

In 2020, thanks to an outpouring of community support BGCMC was able to make 40 Martin County family's holiday Merry & Bright. At Santa's most southern workshop, the Hobe Sound Cole Club was transformed into an assembly and distribution center like no other. On Dec. 20, 2021, the Club was transformed again assemble and distribute backpacks and holiday gift package to Club members families.