Preston - A small town like this doesn't have an extensive network of human services agencies that know when and which families are struggling financially, so Parks and Recreation Department Director Amy Brosnan decided to take on the task herself.

The Parks and Recreation Department with assistance from the Preston Veterans' Memorial School PTO sent fliers to the town's two schools and asked others who might know families facing financial hardships during the holidays. Quickly, she received 23 responses for 27 children, mostly directly from families seeking assistance, along with one referral by a school bus driver and another from "a friend of a friend" expressing concern about a family.

"We threw out some fliers to the schools," Brosnan said. "We just want to make sure every kid in Preston has a merry Christmas this year."

She dubbed the program "Presents for Preston."

Brosnan started the program last year, but on a much smaller scale, with five families and some donations to take care of their needs. With so many requests this year, she needed a wider audience. So Brosnan created "virtual Christmas trees" posted on the Parks and Recreation Department Facebook page listing the children's ages, sizes and gift requests - no names to avoid identifying anyone in this small town.

Local businesses and friend groups sponsored families and businesses donated $250 to fill any voids. She also put out donation jars at Village Pizza, the town's schools, Lu-Mac's Package Store and the Lake of Isles golf course.

"The outpouring of love and support for this project has been amazing," Brosnan said. "Its' great to be able to help spread the joy and magic of the holiday season to those in need in the Preston community."

The response soon filled her small corner office in Town Hall. Bags and boxes of toys, clothing, coats and even a brand new mountain bike for a 16-year-old boy. Brosnan was worried about that request.

"I contacted someone directly about that, and he said he would get his paintball team to sponsor it," she said.

The paintball team brought a new 18-speed mountain bike to her office.

Brosnan checked her list and went shopping Friday for the last remaining items - including wrapping paper and tape. Some parents picked up their gifts Friday evening.

"The parents were very appreciative," Brosnan said. "It's a good feeling to know that we are helping to make sure every Preston kid has gifts under the tree on Christmas morning."

First Selectman Robert Congdon opened the locked Recreation Department office Thursday following the Board of Selectmen meeting and special town meeting to show those attending the response Brosnan received from the town. He thanked Brosnan and the Parks and Recreation Department for their efforts.

"I think she and Parks and Rec Department did a great job of reaching out and finding these families," Congdon said. "It's just incredible when you looked and saw the generosity of people in town. When you usually hear only the complainers, it's really quite refreshing when you see there are so many great people in the community."

c.bessette@theday.com

Twitter: @Bessettetheday