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Toys for Tots Generous Donations!

 

Toys for Tots Volunteers

Anna Travias and Rosina Harlem, Realtors® at Barrett | Sotheby's International Realty have been collecting donations for Toys for Tots for years. Travias and Harlem have collected donations for the past two years at Barrett | Sotheby's International Realty, but both have histories of collecting prior to joining together, here! They have worked together on the effort together for four years total.

Travias collected in her previous career for over fifteen years. The same is true for Harlem.

When asked why she was drawn to the cause, Travias said, "I think it's a great cause. I don't think any child should not have anything to open on Christmas."

Harlem shared similar sentiments stating, "All children should have a good holiday," and "I'm just really into the giving of the season!"

Toys can be donated at any of the Barrett | Sotheby's International Realty locations until December 15th. 

Prior to becoming part of the team here, Harlem worked with a colleague at another firm to collect toys. Each year, the same family contributed a generous load of gifts. The deliveries, Harlem says, have continued.

Last year, we highlighted the family on the blog. As their family grows, so do their donations, and so does the legacy of this wonderful story and tradition. Below is the story of Sylvester (Ziggy) Barbato, and his family! 

 

Sylvester (Ziggy) Barbato grew up in Stoughton, Massachusetts, as a member of a first-generation Italian American family. One of nine children, he grew up knowing that Christmas mornings would be sparse, with no presents to open, and certainly no toys.

When he started a family of his own, he was determined to make Christmas merry for his kids. With five children to provide for, Mr. Barbato had to work multiple jobs to support his family and make sure they had toys to play with on Christmas morning. He shared his story with his children of a Christmas without the gifts, and taught them that there are always families in need "especially around the holidays."

His children heard his message and hoped to continue the same tradition and merriment that their father provided for them. Each year, the whole family gathers together to share their Christmas cheer with others. Mr. Barbato gives his children money to bring their children to the toy store where they all pick out gifts for Toys For Tots. On Christmas Day, the family shares in the happiness of knowing that kids, who otherwise may not have been able to open gifts on Christmas morning, are sharing in their joy, just as Mr. Barbato has always hoped.

On behalf of Barrett | Sotheby's International Realty, thank you to the Barbato family, for your generous donations.

To donate to Toys for Tots this holiday season, visit any of the five Barrett | Sotheby's International Realty locations by December, 15th, or visit Toys For Tots online.