Anonymous old friend gives CFA big boost

Quiet doesn’t mean disconnected for the all-time leading donor to Press Christmas for All.

On Monday, the very private philanthropist - known only to Press readers as Anonymous in Athol - broke his silence and joyfully donated $10,000 to the newspaper's holiday program.

“I’ve been paying close attention every day since the program's kickoff,” he told The Press. “It’s clear that Christmas for All needs a boost right about now, so as always, I’m happy to help.”

Press Christmas for All’s goal is $225,000. Donations this year are running behind last year at this time, and the big day is rapidly closing in. As of Monday, the goal was less than halfway met.

No individual, company or trust has given more to Press Christmas for All than Anonymous in Athol. His first gift was $5,000, back in 2001. That was just the beginning of a long and exceedingly generous relationship.

Through 2021, the jolly young soul had donated $199,000, so his contribution Monday pushed him well past the $200,000 mark.

And he might not be done.

“Here’s a challenge,” he said. “I know that times are tough for many folks, with inflation so high. But if my fellow donors can get us to the $220,000 mark by Christmas, I’ll give another $5,000 to make sure we cross the goal line.”

Because Christmas Day is Sunday and The Press will be closed on Monday to observe the holiday, a final tally for the 2022 campaign won’t be known until the middle of next week.

But this much is certain: Anonymous in Athol is doing his part, and then some. Are you up for his challenge?