Toys for Catholic Charities donated at concert

Longboat Key
Neighbors

St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church held its annual Christmas concert on Friday. More than 100 people attended, and each brought an unwrapped toy. That’s the standard price of admission.

“Every year, we do this,” Chuck Sobieck said. “They’re going to Catholic Charities in Sarasota.”

Church members belted “Hark, the Herald Angel Sing” during the singalong at the end of the concert, which featured a singer, flutist and pianist.

“The music blew everybody’s socks off,” George Noble raved.

After the concert, guests were invited to Pick Hall for a reception with cookies and punch.

Catholic Charities supports all ages, from early intervention through senior services and everyone in between in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Financial support, affordable housing, immigration assistance and counseling are among their services.

CC’s mission is “to seek to serve and empower all in need regardless of race, nationality or religion” in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

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Lesley Dwyer

Lesley Dwyer is a staff writer for East County and a graduate of the University of South Florida. After earning a bachelor’s degree in professional and technical writing, she freelanced for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Lesley has lived in the Sarasota area for over 25 years.