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Released 28 September 2008
Organizations already seeking holiday help for disadvantaged
By TONY BRUSCATO • OBSERVER Staff Writer • September 28, 2008
While it's still three months until Christmas and most people haven't even thought about holiday gifts, it's not that way for local organizations looking to help those who can't afford gifts and a meal for the holiday.
"We've been taking phone calls and scheduling appointments for people applying for assistance," said Laurie Aren, the Salvation Army Plymouth Corps' director of family and community ministries. "We already we have 60 families coming to talk about their income versus expenses, what's happening in their households and how the Salvation Army can help them."
The Plymouth Corps has a number of opportunities to help families in need, including the Toy Shop, which has donated gifts for children up to 18 years old, and the Adopt-a-Family program.
"We give those who adopt families a list with a want and a need for members of the adopted family," said Aren. "They also buy gift cards so the family can have Christmas dinner."
Last year, according to Aren, there were 200 families in the Adopt-a-Family program and more than 120 families that came through the Toy Shop. "I think the numbers are going to skyrocket this year because of the economy," Aren said.
Anyone wanting to give toys or adopt a family can contact the Salvation Army at (734) 453-5464.
Meanwhile, the Plymouth Goodfellows has begun its campaign to make sure no child in Plymouth is without a Christmas.
"Last year we were able to give gifts to 300 children from 90 families that requested help," said Penny Irwin, president of Plymouth Goodfellows. "We've been lucky the past few years with the generosity of people and businesses in Plymouth who help us financially. Some businesses have even adopted entire families."
The Goodfellows will have their annual newspaper sale to raise money on Dec. 6 at various stores in the Plymouth area. Those who wish to volunteer or donate money can send an e-mail to plymouthgoodfellows@yahoo.com.
The Salvation Army is also looking for bell ringers for its Red Kettle campaign, which begins Nov. 17 and runs through Christmas Eve. Teresa Moriarty, volunteer coordinator for the kettle campaign, said it's as easy as signing up for a location and time at www.ringbell.org.
"Our goal is $235,000, and it's going to be a challenge," said Moriarty. "It seems when times are tough people give more from their hearts."