The economic recession has not only hit families, individuals, and businesses hard, but also those organizations and benefits that provide services and needs for those in need in our area. The recession has created even a bigger burden, yet the various charitable organizations are getting less.
The Toys for Tots foundation serving the Chambersburg and Shippensburg areas, as well as the rest of Franklin County, estimate the need at 40,000 toys.
He estimates that Marine Corps Reserve volunteers are going to need about 40,000 toys to put toys under the tree and fill the stockings of the area’s needy children.
Last year, the Toy for Tots drive provided Christmas gifts for 5,500 area children. The Marine Corps Reserve inherited clients from the Franklin County Toy Mission following its demise.
“We are looking at a big increase in those numbers because of the economy and the rise in unemployment this year,” he said. “I’m asking the public to be generous and step up to the plate and help us.”
Knowing the state of the economy, we simply request from our customers and readers, if you can help, please do. One or two toys from each of us can help make a difference.
The date is set for the Stewart Foundation Community Christmas dinner.
The annual Stewart Foundation Community Christmas Dinner will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 24 at the Shippensburg Firefighters Activities Center, 33 W. Orange Street.
Doors open at 10:30 a.m. and final meals will be served at 12:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required.
This meal is free for those who would be alone on Christmas as well as families who are financially unable to provide a holiday meal for themselves.
And here is some information on the annual Salvation Army Christmas Assistance Program.
Proof of expenses can include phone and utility bills, car payments, car insurance, life insurance, cable and fuel or propane.
“We verify income and expenses to make sure there is a need,” said Pat Hughes, Chambersburg Salvation Army office manager.
According to Hughes, few applicants are turned away.
“We would encourage anyone who feels they are in need to come forward and apply,” Hughes said.
She believes there will be a significantly higher number of applicants this year, due to the economy, and would not want any family to delay asking for aid.
The assistance program provides families with Christmas dinner and toys for children younger than 12
Each of these drives and programs are awesome community based help and assistance. If you can, if you have the ability, please help these wonderful assistance programs.
