December 1, 2000

Holiday shopping started early at the eighth annual FAO Schwarz Holiday Shopping Benefit Nov. 16 to help raise money for the Friends of the MGH Cancer Center. More than 700 guests shopped until they dropped at the toy store's Back Bay location to raise almost $300,000. The funds will help the organization provide comfort, support and education to MGH cancer patients and their families.

Mimes, jugglers and magicians entertained guests as they bid on items – ranging from vacation getaways to Red Sox tickets – in a silent auction. The event also featured book signings by celebrated authors such as Brian McGrory, author of The Incumbent; Wendy Rouillard, author of Barnaby – Seasons in the Park; and Paige Retus and Sally Sampson, co-authors of The Dessert Table with Todd English.

MGH supporters Beth and Jim Morgan
have fun shopping at FAO Schwarz.