In 1969, a schoolteacher and a social worker enlisted the aid of several local churches, students, and other school staff members to assist 7 very needy families at Christmas. Each year since then, the number of needy families being served has mushroomed; now, Christmas Sharing helps over 650 families each year!
That first year, one local church was used for the collection and sorting of food, clothing, and toys, which were then packed and delivered to the homes of the needy families. In 1971, the format for Christmas Sharing changed to its present form; six churches now act as centers where all collected items are sorted and arranged for display. Needy families are sent letters, which explain Christmas Sharing, and are invited to come to the church to select the items they need. A donation is accepted, allowing each family a measure of pride. For those unable to donate, so be it.
In addition to the clothing, household items, etc. that they select, each family is given a box of food which includes canned goods, cereal, rice, paper goods, baby foods and diapers if needed, special diet and single serving products for our seniors and a food gift certificate. Parents are given new age-appropriate toys for their infant through teenage children.
The community at large is asked to participate in Christmas Sharing and does. Our schools hold drives to collect food and good clothing and toys. The six site churches and their two assisting churches, in addition to holding drives at the time of Christmas Sharing, have groups involved year round knitting mittens and hats, making doll clothes, collecting stocking stuffers and making stockings, etc. People even involve their employers in the giving by arranging for corporate gifts of food, materials (such as boxes and supplies) and money. And during the week prior to Christmas Sharing, numerous volunteers spend their evenings sorting, arranging and sometimes repairing and cleaning the donated items.
Contributions of money are received year-round and are used to purchase the new toys and food. Monies left after the Sharing are kept in an account for purchasing toys (sales are checked for bargains throughout the year) and for any emergency needs that may be referred to us by the schools and churches in the community.
The activities of Christmas Sharing are directed by a small informal Steering Committee composed of representatives from the serving churches, the area schools, the township department of human services and others interested in the project.
Won’t you consider how you can help this year? Contact us at xmassharing@cbc4me.com for more information.
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