The Grand Marshal of the Taunton Christmas Parade 2022 is Helen Cardoso

TAUNTON — “It is a great honor. I am so overwhelmed and grateful to have been invited to this,” said Taunton resident and philanthropist Helen Cardoso, who will be grand marshal of this year’s Christmas Parade.

Cardoso was chosen to be grand marshal based on her contributions to both the business community and local charitable efforts, according to a written statement from Mayor Shaunna O’Connell’s office.

Born in Portugal, Cardoso immigrated to the United States when she was 14 years old.

From 1989 to 2021, she owned and operated the School Street Bakery in Taunton.

In 2016 he bought the former Ward 5 Club on Winter Street, now known as the New Ward 5 Underground Bar and Grill. She sold the School Street Bakery in 2021 to focus solely on Ward 5. And she continues to work in the Ward 5 kitchen and function room to this day.

Cardoso said much of his local volunteer work over the years has been done through the city chapter of the St. Vincent’s de Paul Society.

O’Connell said recent examples of Cardoso helping the city include stocking turkeys in the District 5 kitchen for a recent turkey giveaway for homes in need and volunteering for a fundraiser for the Taunton Animal Shelter in Water Street.

“She is an unsung hero. Helen has done a lot behind the scenes over the years to help people. She never seeks attention or limelight. She is just a blessing to so many people,” said Mayor O’Connell.