SHELTON — While most families are busy preparing for their own Easter celebrations, the DiMatteo family has been creating their own memories for the community at large.

For over 25 years, the DiMatteo family has delivered a tradition of hope and happiness to benefit five domestic violence shelters throughout Fairfield and New Haven Counties. Their annual Easter Basket Drive was sponsored by DiMatteo Group Financial Services, a well-known, family business headquartered in Shelton.

“This year we assembled over 100 colorful Easter baskets for area children,” said Jessica LaChance of Bethany, who spearheaded this drive for the fifth year in a row and is a second-generation family member. She also works in the family business as a Financial Advisor at DiMatteo Group Financial Services.

“As a child, I remember helping my parents, John and Kim DiMatteo, assemble all the goodies for the Easter baskets. This early childhood experience taught me the value of community service to others. I want to continue the lasting legacy they started. We have impacted thousands of families in the region to make their Easter holiday a little brighter,” added Jessica.

Specifically, the gift baskets were delivered to the Domestic Violence Crisis Centers of Norwalk and Stamford, Inspirica Inc of Stamford, Open Doors CT in Norwalk, and The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services.

Each child, from infants on up to teenagers, received age-appropriate baskets that were assembled by a dedicated group of volunteers. Special thanks to these seven volunteers who dedicated countless hours of their time to bring happiness to others: Kim LaChance of Prospect, Chase Agvent of Orange, Theresa Roman of Tampa, Florida, and Bethany residents Cindy Smith and Lily Warecke as well as the DiMatteo family, especially Jessica LaChance and Kim DiMatteo.

Since its inception, 2,550 baskets have helped thousands of area children in need. This annual company-wide and family tradition was started by Bethany residents John DiMatteo, President of DiMatteo Group Financial Services and his wife Kim DiMatteo, Senior Vice President of Cross Insurance in Shelton. Over the years, their three children, Anthony, Michael and Jessica plus other employees, friends and clients have organized this massive volunteer project.

DiMatteo Group Financial Services in Shelton is a multi-generational, family-owned business with more than 60 years of combined experience that specializes in developing financial strategies for individuals and businesses.

The company supports many other local charities through the DiMatteo Family Charitable Foundation. The Foundation, established in 2005 in honor of company founder Anthony “Tony” DiMatteo, has donated more than $759,000 to over 20 local and national charities.