The annual toy drive sponsored by The Road Theatre took place just before the holidays, with the Roadies generously providing toys for the kids, gift cards for the for the teens, and a visit from Santa Claus for the the families living at Vermont Family Apartments in Los Angeles, CA. This award-winning, 49-unit community was developed by Meta Housing specifically to meet the needs of grandparents caring for their grandchildren.
In November, Taylor Gilbert, founder and Co-Artistic Director of The Road Theatre Company, made the request for support at the Road company meeting. In December, Roadie and EngAGE Program Director Elizabeth Sampson collected donations, then pulled together the last of the gifts and gift cards for the teenagers. On December 19th, Nancy, Sara, and Elizabeth wrapped the remaining presents, filled the gift cards, and then loaded all into Nancy’s “sleigh” to head down to Vermont the next day.
Roadie David Gionopolis met the “sleigh” there on Wednesday night in time for the holiday festivities. He served admirably as Santa, handing out the gifts with the help of Sandra and Dehalie. (David can be seen in the play, “Through the Eye of the Needle,” opening at The Road Theatre in March).
EngAGE thanks The Road Theatre Company for their continuing generosity. A look at these terrific photos shows how much it means to these families! (Click on the photos to enlarge them.)
~ Elizabeth Sampson and Sandra Vargas, Program Directors
