Christmas for Families

We would like to take this time to thank everyone that has already helped Christmas for Families 2012. It is always a joy to see how many people think of others and want to help.

We accept donations year round and try to help when people are in need not just Christmas but our priority is Christmas time, as that seems to be the worst for all of us. In 2011 we were able to help 250 children plus their parents – 97 families – we could not do this without the help of our community and visitors to our wonderful town. We believe that this year will be right up there in numbers.

With the season fast approaching Christmas for Families is once again looking for donations. Our volunteers are getting ready to help anyone that needs a little help this time of year. They do their best to help as many families as possible and make it a better Christmas than they may have had. Our goal is to make sure that all ages will have something under the tree; we believe that we are all kids at heart.

Anyone that wants to help can either make a donation of gifts, money or adopt a child or family. We do not give out names but we will give you sizes, age and anything special that they may be looking for. There will be a box at Maine Street Realty and Rentals at 20 Railroad Street, Bethel, for any donations that you would like to leave.

If you need assistance (and live in the SAD 44 district) to make a better Christmas you need to fill out an application which you can pick up at Maine Street Realty. There is a box just inside the first door; just fill it out and leave it in the box or mail it to Christmas for Families, 156 Barker Road, Bethel, ME 04217. The other way is to call Nina at 836-3600 or e-mail ninawheeler@msn.com and leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as possible. Our goal this year is to have all the gifts delivered by Dec. 20. Anyone that has not heard from us by then please call.

We are also having a Benefit Bingo on Nov. 30, at Jackson-Silver Post 68 in Locke Mills. There will food sales and raffles; doors open at 4 p.m. and Bingo starts at 6 p.m.

Nina Wheeler

Director, Christmas for Families