This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Kiwanis Club of Wilton’s annual citrus sale fundraiser. Tree-ripened grapefruit and oranges will be picked and then quickly shipped from Florida and delivered fresh in a refrigerated truck for pick up in Wilton starting at noon on Friday, March 2. This year the Florida citrus will be joined by Halos shipped from California.

“Over the last quarter century the fruit has consistently met very high quality standards and we expect the same this year,” says Fred Sindel, head of the distribution effort.

“While hurricanes and severe weather have impacted various suppliers, particularly in Florida, we are pleased to announce that we will maintain the same prices as last year,” adds Dave Hapke, who oversees the entire Kiwanis Citrus Sale.

The sale has grown well beyond local residents buying fresh fruit for their personal use. Businesses, clubs and other organizations also partner with Kiwanis to sell fruit for their own charitable efforts. This, coupled with generous donations from friends and supporters, has enabled Wilton Kiwanis to annually distribute thousands of dollars to worthy charitable organizations. By far, it is the largest fund-raising activity for Wilton’s oldest service organization.

“Since this is our 25th anniversary, we are hoping to set a new record in terms of both sales and donations,” says Wilton Kiwanis president John Kalamarides. Last year over 1,300 cases were sold raising over $10,000, in addition to the many cases donated to local food pantries and shelters.

After the sale, the Kiwanis Club members distribute 100% of all net proceeds to local charitable causes with an emphasis on helping the welfare of children and teens. The recipient organizations include Wilton Social Services, Wilton Youth Council, Trackside Teen Center and the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.

Orders may be placed in the following ways:

Since its founding in 1951 Wilton Kiwanis has a long tradition of serving the community. The club stands on three pillars: community service, altruism, and camaraderie.

In the photo (L to R):  Dave Hapke, Dave Forslund, Mary Anne Franco, Paul Hannah and Jeff Turner.