The St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services, Division of Human Services, in partnership with the Department of Social Services, Mike’s Bikes and Toys for Tots, presents the 2014 Christmas Caring Program. The program consists of individuals, businesses, and organizations donating gifts of toys, clothing and/or food to families in need.
Due to current economic conditions, the need is substantial and sponsors are desperately needed. Over 900 families have requested assistance through the Christmas Caring Program. That number is expected to rise as the Division of Human Services continues to receive requests through the month of November.
Organizations are asked to consider sponsoring a family this Christmas season. If you are interested, please contact the Division of Human Services at 301-475-4200, extension 1680 as soon as possible so families can receive assistance by December 12. A gift request form, completed by families in need of assistance, will be forwarded to you. The form provides information about each child’s age, clothing size, gift preferences, etc. Sponsors are asked to deliver the gifts or contact the families to arrange pick-ups. If you are unable to sponsor a family please consider donating a gift to Toys for Tots. Donations can be placed in a drop-off station at your local Wal-Mart, K-Mart, The Rex, or Dress Barn.
Keep in mind for some of these families the gift form they complete is merely a “wish list”. Parents often request items their children have asked for, but they simply cannot afford to purchase. However, both parents and children are most appreciative of whatever they receive. Sponsors should not feel compelled to purchase everything on the list unless they are able to do so.
