'The Fair That Cares' asks you to care, too
CANFIELD — Because people make the fair, the Arts and Crafts Department of the Canfield Fair wants to give something back. Lisa Toy, building superintendent, said this is why a new category in “From the Fair That Cares” will give exhibitors a chance at creativity, a chance for prizes and a chance to help others.
This is the category for those who can’t bake or sew. Instead, they can compile items into a basket or other container, enter them at the fair, then donate it all to the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley to be given to those who need some help.
The gift baskets may be school supplies, or items for a man, baby, boy, girl or woman.
The baskets are limited to holding 15 items, because entrants were so generous, the containers became too large in past years. Toy says many people enter just this one item in the building because they want to help.
Two other categories are for sewers making single items: a blanket or throw or a homemade stuffed doll or toy.
All entries must be registered by Aug. 10, taken to the fair to be judged and viewed by fairgoers, then taken by a big truck to the Rescue Mission, which distributes them.
Outstanding gift baskets are auctioned off at the Mission’s benefit auction.
This year’s fair is the fifth for this contest.
Almost 300 baskets have been donated in those four years.
Details can be obtained when registering at the Canfield Fair office at (330) 533-4107 for registration.