Dear editor:
I wanted to thank everyone for helping us serve over 10,000 lunches and distribute 42,000-plus pounds of groceries this summer. It certainly was a busy one. We could not do the work we do without the partnership of our community!
I need to ask for the community's help with another project. I am asking early so that we can all look for sales on items that we can give. The holidays are coming ever so quickly and we need help in making preparations. From 2010-2013 we gave toys to 2,077 children, averaging over 500 each year. We provide a small toy, a blanket, a soft cuddly item, a book, warm socks, gloves and hats, a few school supplies, if appropriate, toiletry items and a little bit of candy. If available, we try to give sweaters, coats, food for the family and other items. This is not only an opportunity to show these children that they are important and are cared for, but also one where their needs are met in a variety of ways. The hope of a child for something for themselves is universal. For many of them, their lives are hard and hungry. If we can help to alleviate that, then we have given them hope.
We try our best to work with the other agencies, churches and others who help and welcome cooperation with them. I know that there are instances where some people ask for help from more than one organization, however, therefore, we look at each situation individually. We give in the hopes that other needed items are imparted to the children. We keep careful records of those who receive our items. Our purpose is to focus on those unable to provide for their children this year.
We have so appreciated the partnership with our community so that every child can have something special. The Monday following Thanksgiving, Dec. 1, our wonderful Christmas elves will be organizing and sorting the things that we currently have. We will begin giving toys and other items as they are available from Dec. 15-24. Proof of residency, birth certificates, Social Security cards, and possibly notes from school counselors and-or court documents will be accepted. These things help us to identify children with their families and need.
If you are able to help us gather the things we need or wish to donate financially so that we may purchase items, please call 501-623-4048. If you would like to partner with our organization or volunteer, please call or drop by 705 Malvern Ave. Every item counts to the one who receives it. All food donations are also appreciated and much needed as well. Thank you so much for your love and concern for the littlest among us!
In God's love,
Janie Smith
Director
Eleanor Klugh Jackson House for Crisis Intervention Inc.
Editorial on 09/26/2014