Friendship House still seeking sponsors
- Details
- Published on Friday, 06 December 2013 15:51
- Written by Paul Gordon
Peoria Friendship House of Christian Service still needs sponsors for its Adopt-a-Family and Christmas Tree Lane programs, now in their 24th year.
There are 122 total families in the Peoria Friendship House Adopt a Family program, including about 330 children, and 13 of those families still await sponsors, according to Friendship House.
"Imagine a Christmas tree without gifts under it. Imagine the disappointment on a child's face Christmas morning of not seeing colorful packages with shiny bows just waiting to be opened. Imagine a parents' disappointment at not being able to provide this simple joy for their children," the organization said in a news release.
"At Peoria Friendship House of Christian Service we are committed to making sure this does not have to happen. Guided by the true spirit of friendship, Adopt-A-Family is a Peoria Friendship House program established with the purpose of enabling families in need to celebrate and enjoy the beauty and wonders of the holiday season.
"Nearly one in five Americans reported they were unable to afford food at some point in the last year. Many of the families applying for assistance are facing financial hardships and are struggling to afford a Christmas dinner, toys or warm clothing for their children. The Peoria Friendship House Adopt-A-Family program has worked to build a loyal base of sponsors who make a difference by supplying needed gifts and resources to households in need," the release said.
It added that the number of families in our area struggling just to provide the minimum daily necessities is growing.
What can you do to help?
Family sponsors are matched with a family (or families) with children. It is possible to request a certain size family. Sponsors may either shop for items on the family "wish List" or make a financial contribution and Friendship House staff will do the shopping. Generally, sponsors spend about $30 to $50 per child and have the option to purchase family food or household items (depending on the size of the family). A gift card for groceries is a good solution for the family items.You can also donate clothes and toys to be used in our expanded Christmas Tree Lane program. In order to serve more families, parents will be able to shop for their children at very reasonable prices.Host a toy, glove/hat or clothing drive with your workplace, church or group of friends and family.Volunteer to help with Adopt-A-Family or Christmas Tree Lane.
You can become a part of Peoria Friendship House's Christmas programs by emailing mkelly@peoriafriendshiphouse.org or call Michelle Kelly directly at 309-671-5200 ext 20.
"Last year, with the help of the community, we were able to provide over 500 disadvantaged children with gifts and helped their families experience the joy of Christmas," the release said.
Gifts need to be delivered to Peoria Friendship House of Christian Service by Dec. 16.
