NBC Connecticut is proud to partner with Central Connecticut State University and the Ana Grace Project to support the Love Wins Community Drive.
Nelba Marquez-Greene remembers her daughter Ana Grace, one of 20 first graders killed inside Sandy Hook Elementary School, in many ways, including her work through the Ana Grace Project, an organization she created as a tribute to her daughter.
The Ana Grace Project partnered with the Consolidated School District of New Britain and CCSU to collect toys, winter clothing, toiletries, and food for New Britain families in need.
The drive was all about giving back, and taking a day of sadness and turning it into hope.
The community rose to the challenge, with hundreds of hundreds of donations pouring in.
“This is an amazing community, and we are just so blessed to be here. Everybody working together. This is how love wins,” Marquez-Greene said.
The food collected at the drive will go to food pantries like Maria's Place, which serves CCSU students in need. Toys will go to parents in New Britain to put under their Christmas tree.
“The message is to give back to the community and show that love does win, and the receivers of these items today we hope that their hearts will be as full as ours today," said organizer Courtney McDavid.
This was the first year of the drive, and organizers plan to continue. Learn more here.
