GEORGETOWN, DE — Residents filled Georgetown’s downtown Circle on Thursday night for a seasonal tradition that blends holiday celebration with community service. The annual Caroling on The Circle marked its 42nd year, drawing crowds to sing, gather and contribute food for families in need, in a publicly issued statement from Sussex County.
This year’s gathering again preceded the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce Christmas parade, offering one evening of entertainment and giving. The statement notes the pairing, now in its third year, has helped bolster participation. Organizers announced preliminary totals showing more than 20,500 cans and other shelf stable foods collected for area food pantries. Donations will continue through the end of December.
(photo: sussexcountyde.gov)
Caroling on The Circle began in 1984 and has grown into one of Sussex County’s largest holiday food drives, with more than 840,000 items donated over four decades, according to the statement.
A storage trailer stationed on The Circle served as the focal point for collection, and the County reported continuing its partnership with the Food Bank of Delaware to assist with both in person and online contributions. Food came in from County departments, schools, local businesses and community groups, helping the effort surpass the 20,000-item mark. Last year’s drive collected nearly 20,000 donated items.
Residents can still drop off canned or nonperishable food items at the County Administrative Offices on The Circle in Georgetown from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday through December 31. Monetary donations are also being accepted throughout the month. According to officials; once collected, food will be distributed to about 20 local pantries, shelters and church organizations serving families across Sussex County.