Earlier this week, the Exchange Club of Greater Newburyport together with Turning Point and the Central Congregational Church in Newburyport hosted our annual Turning Point group home holiday party. Turning Point is a non-profit organization that is committed to providing exceptional services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Merrimack Valley and North Shore areas. Turning Point supports over 150 individuals living in 36 residences in this area – about 20 residents from 8 of the residences were able to attend the party.

The party started with a buffet of many foods along with an array of desserts, including cupcakes, cookies and a pumpkin pie. As our guests served themselves, music was provided by Steve Hines and Neil Spinney. Christmas carols were the segue to the arrival of Santa Claus, played by old friend Lee Thomas, and the emotions took over. Each resident took home a gift bag of personalized presents, and each home attendant received a Dunkin Donuts gift card. Jean Moore from Turning Point commented “Their faces just light up when they see Santa Claus,” she said. “We appreciate what you do.”