Wyoming Senior Center is location for this year’s Wyoming Gives Back

Mrs. Claus (pictured above) and Santa will be returning to this year’s Wyoming Gives Back. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The City of Wyoming will once again kick off its holiday season with its Wyoming Gives Back event set for Dec. 2 at a new location, the Wyoming Senior Center.

“After last year’s virtual event, we had the opportunity to reset the way we host Wyoming Gives Back,” said Mayor Jack Poll. “Hosting the event at the Wyoming Senior Center gives us the opportunity to use a beautiful city facility and highlight its many programs and offerings for community members.”

Due to COVID, the city opted for a virtual program in 2020 that was filmed and produced at the WKTV Community Center. Through last year’s efforts, the city was able to collect more than 800 toys and raffled off nearly $3,500 in prizes from local businesses.

“We are thrilled to come together as a community and City to celebrate the holidays and spread joy to local families,” Poll said. “This event is a community favorite for so many residents and families — and a favorite of mine as well. We look forward to community members joining us in person for this holiday event.

The collection vehicle for the annual Wyoming Gives Back. (WKTV)

Residents will bring toys to the Wyoming Senior Center between 6 – 8 p.m. The toys are donated to the Salvation Army Angel Tree. For each toy donated, a resident receives a raffle ticket for a chance to win gifts donated by Wyoming businesses.

Giving back is the reason that Frank Vitale, owner of Frankie V’s, said he sponsors the annual holiday event.

“We have been here for 20 years, so when the City of Wyoming calls, I do what I can to help,” said Vitale, who added he has lived in Wyoming for about 36 years.

During the two-hour event, there will be music from the Salvation Army Band, Wyoming High School Jazz Band, and Lee High School’s Concert Voices. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be there checking in with area children on their Christmas wishes. Also members of the Wyoming Police and Fire departments will be there as well. WKTV will be there once again recording the popular holiday greetings.

The City of Wyoming has been hosting the annual Wyoming Gives Back event for 11 years, partnering with local businesses and the community to celebrate the holiday season by helping those in need. For more information about Wyoming Gives Back, visit www.wyomingmi.gov/givesback or call 616-530-7272.