Foster’s 250th committee wins council approval for tea, calendar raffle and shoe drive, requests startup funding

FOSTER — Members of Foster’s 250th Anniversary Commission updated the Town Council on plans and won authorization March 26 to run three fundraisers to support events and programming for a townwide 250th celebration.

Ms. Johnson, speaking for the commission, described partnerships with Foster Preservation, the Daughters of the American Revolution and local schools. "We hit the ground running," she told the council, outlining school‑based colonial projects, historic‑building tours and an offer from the Secretary of State to provide a red maple tree to plant at the new police station.

The commission asked permission to conduct a calendar raffle in June, a colonial‑era tea at the South Foster fire station on May 17, and a shoe‑collection drive from April 1 to May 31; the shoe drive pays $1,000 to the commission if it collects 2,500 pounds. The council approved the three fundraisers by voice vote and discussed logistics including QR codes, receipts, and how donations will be processed through the recreation account.

Commissioners asked the council for $5,000 in startup operating funds to bridge timing gaps before a small Secretary of State grant arrives; councilors noted an unused DARE account balance of about $4,500 that could be repurposed and agreed the commission may use interim accounting practices pending formal grant reimbursements.

Other items discussed included volunteer coordination for colonial costumes and a fireworks or bonfire centerpiece for the celebration if venue and safety requirements are met. The commission also proposed a SeeMyLegacy page and sought permission to solicit local businesses to underwrite that digital community hub; the council agreed to allow fundraising for the platform.

The commission will continue planning and will return with details as fundraising and grants are finalized.