Caroling on the Circle draws hundreds, collects 24,000 food donations for those in need

Hundreds of people brought the Christmas spirit to Georgetown as they took part in the 35th annual Caroling on the Circle event where they looked to fill cupboards with food and hearts with hope this holiday season.

“This time of year everyone wants to lend a helping hand and it’s great to see the community come together and raise these goods for people,” said Sussex County Administrator Todd Lawson.

Sussex County’s giving spirit was on full display Monday as people of all ages, young and old spent their night caroling for a cause.

“It’s very exciting, as you see it’s a very good turn out, good music, and it’s a fun time for everyone,” said resident Sandra Holland.

Each year, the community singing event doubles as a food drive for hungry families in the county. Drawing hundreds of residents near and far to sing Christmas carols and collect canned goods for pantries, churches, and food banks throughout the area.

“We have this food campaign throughout the month of December asking anyone that is willing and able to come in, bring your donation to the country admin building on the circle,” Lawson said.

This year event officials challenged the public to Pack the Pod, a 14 foot by 7 foot portable storage shed that was set up at the circle, with food items for local families in need. And in one night alone carolers collected a total of 24,556 canned goods and items.

“That’s very important in our community as well as everywhere is that people support those in need and we try to do a lot of that in Georgetown, “said Holland.

“It promotes a spirit of unity within the community,” said Laurel resident Shakhan Toppin.

And officials say the annual event proves just how strong the community in Sussex County can be together.

“It warms my heart as a county administrator to see everyone throughout Sussex county come together, sing holiday songs, but mostly raise money and food goods for those less fortunate,” said Lawson.

If you weren’t able to come out to the event to drop off your food donations, you still have some time. County officials say they’ll continue to collect canned goods and other non-perishables through December 31st. They also say you can drop off items at the County Administrative Offices in Georgetown between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.