Here at Congregation Tifereth Israel, we’re familiar with the big red barrel that CAST provides for donations that correspond to the various drives and campaigns that help CAST clients — our neighbors needing a helping hand from time to time during the year.

We step up when personal care items are needed, similarly back to school supplies and, most recently, cans of food and nonperishable items to help families having difficulty feeding their families.

This time, the shul is one of many drop-off points (that’s us listed there under Greenport) for the Holiday Toy Drive. The Big Red Barrel is at the top of the ramp by the kitchen door, where it is protected from bad weather and temptation by passers-by.

The shul’s participation is monitored by the Tikkun Olam group, which will check the barrel frequently for donations, and see that they are delivered to CAST headquarters so that children can enjoy the fun of the season of giving.

Will you help us fill the barrel?