For many years, our congregation has generously provided Christmas gifts of clothing, toys, and food for families in need referred by the Washtenaw County Department of Health and Human Services through Family to Family Christmas. We are now also partnering with local non-profit Fostering Futures to provide gifts to foster children, adding to this meaningful local mission. As many of those who have helped provide for others during this season will attest, the act of reaching out to those in need adds a poignant reminder of the meaning and celebration of our Lord’s birth.
This year, we ask you and your family to consider giving from the heart by participating in this good work in any of the following ways. One online form enables you to sign up to help children or families in either or both programs:
Provide Gifts for a Foster Child. Sign up online to request information on a foster child to assist beginning November 5 through December 3. Once you receive the gift information, please purchase the requested items, place in a gift bag (but do not wrap the gifts), and bring to the church by December 3.
Adopt a Family.
Sign up online to request information on a family to adopt beginning November 12 through December 10. Families range from elderly or disabled individuals to families of 6 or more. The recommended minimum amount to spend per family member is ~$30 (you need only buy gifts for children 18 and under and senior citizens). Once you have received the family information, please contact the family to let them know they have a donor, clarify gift needs, and determine a delivery method.
Family-to-Family is a person-to-person project, and we encourage donors to communicate with their families during what can be an isolating time. Suggested delivery options include: arranging a date for gift delivery at the door; shopping and shipping gifts directly to the family; or sending gift cards to the family. You may also request that a volunteer deliver your gifts on your behalf.
Donation.
Make a financial contribution of any amount (please indicate Family-to-Family). Your donation will help purchase gift cards for families or children not directly assisted. Financial contributions may also be used to assist families at U-M/Mott Hospital during the holidays.
Volunteer.
Give the gift of your time. Volunteers are needed to help deliver gifts to families on Sunday, December 17—or ask about other way you might help!
For more information about helping a foster child, adopting a family, or volunteering, see the online sign-up link, or contact Julie Morrison at jdornmorrison@gmail.com or 734-646-5351.
Thank you for your past support and for helping to make this a blessed Christmas for children and families in our area.