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Neighbor News

DiMatteo Family of Bethany Delivers Easter Joy For Over 25 Years

This year they brightened the lives of children residing in six domestic violence shelters in New Haven and Fairfield Counties

Following another successful year of their annual Easter Basket Drive, the DiMatteo family of Bethany is proud to announce the culmination of their heartfelt initiative aimed at bringing joy to children in need during the Easter season. DiMatteo Group Financial Services, in partnership with Cross Insurance, two Shelton-based family businesses, co-sponsored this year's drive throughout Fairfield and New Haven Counties.

For over 25 years, the DiMatteo family has been dedicated to brightening the lives of children residing in domestic violence shelters across the region. The following six organizations benefited: the Domestic Violence Crisis Centers of Norwalk and Stamford, Inspirica Inc of Stamford, Open Doors CT in Norwalk, and The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services in Ansonia and New Haven.

With the assistance of devoted volunteers Cindy Smith of Bethany, Kim LaChance of Prospect, and Lucy Caruso of Bethany, the DiMatteo family meticulously crafted over 100 handmade baskets tailored to each age group, ensuring every child, from infants to teenagers, felt the warmth of the Easter spirit.

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"We are overwhelmed by the generosity and support we have received from our community," said Jessica DiMatteo, who spearheaded this year's drive for the third year in a row. She is also the Marketing Coordinator at DiMatteo Group Financial Services. "The DiMatteo family extends their sincerest gratitude to all those who contributed their time, resources, and unwavering support to make this initiative a resounding success. We saw an outpouring of support from volunteers and donors alike."

Since its inception, 2,300 baskets have helped thousands of area children in need. This annual companywide and family tradition was started by Bethany residents John DiMatteo, President of DiMatteo Group Financial Services and his wife Kim DiMatteo, now Senior Vice President of Cross Insurance. Over the years, their three young children, Anthony, Michael and Jessica plus other employees, friends and clients also pitched in for this worthwhile community outreach project.

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DiMatteo Group Financial Services in Shelton is a multi-generational, family-owned business with more than 60 years of combined experience that specializes in developing financial strategies for individuals and businesses. The company supports many other local charities through the DiMatteo Family Charitable Foundation. The Foundation, established in 2005 in honor of company founder Anthony "Tony" DiMatteo, has donated over $549,000 to nearly 20 charities in the past 18 years, including local and national nonprofits such as Adam's House, The Boys & Girls Club, and The Kennedy Collective. Visit www.DiMatteoFinancial.com for more information or call 203-924-5420.

In addition, Cross Insurance in Shelton is a family-owned insurance agency with over 50 branches throughout the Northeast. Today they have become one of New England's largest independent insurance intermediaries with 10 branches throughout Connecticut. Visit www.crossagency.com or call 203-259-7580 for more information.

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