Just my ramblings about my quilting, my husband, my cats and my other importants in life.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Charities for Christmas
I found out when I returned to work this week that a long standing member of our community action program had resigned. With her went the school supply program and the christmas program that provided a couple new toys and a food basket to each family. Over a thousand local families reached out to these programs last year. More than they'd seen in a decade. First thought is "how can I help? there's so many!" But I have to focus a little smaller - For the past 5 years we've offered a Holiday Bingo game for participants in my program. I've always done it so the mom's would get some gifts for themselves. Last year I had quilts and pillows for everyone in the program including the kids but only 4 people showed up. The quilts and pillows still went to good homes through the larger Domestic Violence Shelter program (I'm an offshoot at the Welfare office). I've been thinking hard about what I can possibly do to fill in some gaps this year? Two co-workers are trying to pick up the slack and recreate the christmas program but we've always struggled to cover christmas gifts just for our clients. I think of my own gift filled christmas's and I wonder what it would have been like to have had nothing? My dad donated his 10 year supply of hotel soaps and shampoos (don't ask) and my mom sent back her freebie make-up bags (always a popular BINGO item) I'd love to be able to help with those big ticket items related to stabilizing their life but some things are too big for us to tackle. I know I was discouraged by the lack of turn out last year and I didn't pick up as much on the after clearance sales as I usually do. One year I sent for as many free samples as I could to give-away. It was a lot of work and I had to close an email account due to the spam! I know I'm rambling a bit, I feel my mind spinning about what to do, what to offer. SO many charities have had to cut back, more individuals are struggling and there are so many needs out there. What would you want if you were in their shoes?
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for the moms, a purse or handbag of some sorts
ReplyDeleteYes....a purse filled with practical things...like personal grooming items (shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste and brush, packages of tissues, combs, body wash, etc.) Is there any way we can help??? I'd be happy to put aside a couple of dollars here and there and send them to you, Brooke, so you can purchase some of the items you'll need.
ReplyDeleteAre you looking for items to give in bingo? Are you looking for toys? I guess that is what you are trying to decide to do.... I would be happy to donate items to the bingo, I would be happy to send money. What is your job? You are so kind and do amazing things....I am sure you can come up with the right plan....sorry, I am no help.
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