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Lifeworks Receives Warm Gifts for the Winter Season

St. John of Damascus Church Provides Winter Essentials Through Annual Donation Drive

Loading up the Lifeworks van with gifts received from St. John of Demascus Church of Dedham
Loading up the Lifeworks van with gifts received from St. John of Demascus Church of Dedham (Lifeworks)

WESTWOOD, Mass. (Dec. 18, 2024) – Lifeworks, a nonprofit human services provider supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, recently received a generous collection of winter essentials through a donation drive conducted by the congregants of St. John of Damascus Church in Dedham, MA.

The church, known for its dedication to supporting local communities, chose Lifeworks as the recipient of this year’s drive. Together, the church and Lifeworks created a donation list that benefited more than 100 individuals. Items donated included warm hats, gloves, scarves, and thermal socks—essential for the colder months ahead.

“At St. John of Damascus, we believe in sharing love and kindness through action,” said Rev. John Teebagy, pastor of St. John of Damascus Church. “These gifts are small gestures that carry a big message: we care about our neighbors. We’re honored to support Lifeworks in their incredible mission to empower individuals and foster a sense of belonging.”

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Dan Burke, President and CEO of Lifeworks, expressed his gratitude for the church’s generosity: “St. John of Damascus Church has truly embraced the spirit of the season through their thoughtfulness and care. These gifts not only provide warmth but also show the individuals we serve that they are valued members of our community. We are deeply appreciative of this partnership and the joy it brings to those we support.”

Organizations interested in making a gift to Lifeworks can contact Dawna Gyukeri, Vice President of Development and Communication, at dgyukeri@lifeworksarc.org or 781-234-1304.

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About Lifeworks

Since 1954, Lifeworks and its predecessors, Lifeworks Inc. and The Arc of South Norfolk, have served the towns of Norfolk County and beyond by providing support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through advocacy, empowerment and opportunity. The Westwood-based nonprofit organization serves more than 2,300 individuals from communities in the Greater Boston, MetroWest, Norfolk County and Attleboro areas through a wide variety of services and programs, including: employment services; residential, family and community supports; and day programs. For more information, visit www.lifeworksarc.org.

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