Local Groups Give Back for the Holidays

Community Partners Brighten the Holidays for Centerboard Families Through Generous Seasonal Donations

The spirit of giving was on full display this holiday season as two longtime community partners—Davio's Lynnfield and SPUR North Shore—made generous donations to Centerboard, helping bring joy, comfort, and hope to children and families across the North Shore.

Together, the organizations donated hundreds of toys, gift cards, and personalized holiday care packages, ensuring families participating in Centerboard's housing programs could celebrate the season with dignity and joy.

Davio's Lynnfield Continues Five-Year Holiday Tradition

For the fifth consecutive year, the team at Davio's Lynnfield delivered an extraordinary collection of toys and gift cards to Centerboard, filling the organization's conference room with holiday gifts ready for immediate distribution.

Led by Eric, Mike, and the entire Davio's team, the donation arrived just in time for Centerboard's Housing Team to begin delivering gifts to families in need.

"This incredible act of generosity came at exactly the right time," said Mark DeJoie, Chief Executive Officer of Centerboard. "Seeing our conference room filled with toys and gift cards was a powerful reminder of what can happen when businesses invest in their communities. Davio's has become an important part of our holiday tradition, and we are deeply grateful for their continued partnership."

The annual donation helps ensure children and families experiencing housing instability can experience the excitement and magic of the holiday season, regardless of their circumstances.

SPUR North Shore Delivers Personalized Holiday Cheer

Centerboard also received a heartfelt donation from SPUR North Shore, whose volunteers created 50 personalized holiday gift bags for youth participating in the organization's housing programs.

Each thoughtfully assembled bag included gifts tailored for its recipient along with a handwritten note, offering encouragement, kindness, and a personal reminder that every young person is valued and supported by their community.

"These weren't just gift bags—they were messages of hope," said DeJoie. "The handwritten notes and personal touches showed our youth that someone took the time to think about them individually. That kind of care can have a lasting impact."

The personalized bundles were distributed to young people living in Centerboard's housing programs, bringing smiles and meaningful moments during the holiday season.

A Community United by Compassion

The holiday donations reflect the strength of Centerboard's partnerships with local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and volunteers who continue to invest in the well-being of families throughout the North Shore.

For many families facing housing instability or financial hardship, holiday gifts represent more than presents—they serve as reminders that their community cares and that they are not alone.

"Moments like these remind us that the holidays are about connection," DeJoie said. "When community partners come together to support our families, they're creating memories that children will carry with them for years to come."

Centerboard extends its heartfelt gratitude to Davio's Lynnfield, SPUR North Shore, their employees, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to these generous donations. Their commitment to giving back continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local youth and families.

As Centerboard continues its mission of providing housing, family support, youth development, and behavioral health services, partnerships like these demonstrate the extraordinary impact that community generosity can have in creating brighter futures for those who need it most.