With holiday shopping already in full swing the season brings excitement for many families, but also added stress for those struggling to make ends meet.
Joely Nye-Felt, Development Director with Communities In Schools of Benton-Franklin, shared some ways the community can step in and help.
Nye-Felt says this year the need is higher than ever.
“We’re hearing from more families than ever that things are stretched a little more thin than they ever have been,” she said. To meet that growing need, Communities In Schools has created several easy ways for the public to support families during the holiday season.
1. Donate Gift Cards
Nye-Felt says the simplest and most impactful way to help is by donating gift cards, even small amounts.
“Even in amounts as small as $25, that really does allow a parent to go out and purchase gifts with flexibility and dignity for their children,” she said. Gift cards can also help families buy holiday meals that match their own cultural or family traditions.
2. Adopt a Family
Many local schools are hosting giving trees and adopt-a-family programs.
“Folks who want to, can go out and shop for a family,” Nye-Felt said. These programs allow people to directly support children and parents in their own community.
3. Make a General Donation
For those unsure where to start, a general contribution to Communities In Schools goes a long way.
“That allows us to meet needs throughout the whole holiday season as they may arise,” Nye-Felt noted, adding that many urgent needs come up at the last minute. Unrestricted donations give CIS the flexibility to respond quickly.
Communities In Schools is making it easy for anyone to get involved this year and even small gestures can make a big difference.
“It’s a great way to wrap around and support families who may need that additional assistance this holiday season.”
